![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Lawn-Treatment-with-Herbicides.jpg\")
If lawn care’s got you down, consider artificial grass. There are a number of reasons to switch to artificial grass. It conserves water, it’s durable and may be more cost-effective over time. In this article we’ll highlight four reasons to switch to artificial grass – and some of the drawbacks of manufactured or fake turf. […]
\n","content":"\nIf lawn care’s got you down, consider artificial grass. There are a number of reasons to switch to artificial grass. It conserves water, it’s durable and may be more cost-effective over time.
\n\n\n\nIn this article we’ll highlight four reasons to switch to artificial grass – and some of the drawbacks of manufactured or fake turf.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSynthetic turf is made from stronger materials today than it was 30 years ago. Manufacturers attach the individual blades to a backing, much like a carpet that you roll out over a prepared yard space. Artificial grass has vastly improved and looks more like the real thing these days.
\n\n\n\nAside from saving you hours of yard work, there are numerous benefits of switching to artificial turf.
\n\n\n\nWith synthetic grass, you don’t have to worry about sprinklers. You’ll help the planet and significantly reduce your water bill.
\n\n\n\nOne-third of the country is suffering from drought right now. The government estimates Americans use 9 billion gallons a day watering our lawns. We waste much of it due to wind, evaporation, and runoff.
\n\n\n\nYou can get rid of the mower, weedeater, and edger. With artificial turf, you’ll never have to worry about lawn care.
\n\n\n\nHowever low-maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance. You’ll want to keep your garden hose handy, especially if you have pets. You will have to spend about 15 minutes a week keeping it clean with a few minimal chores.
\n\n\n\nIf you can afford the initial cost to switch to fake grass, landscapers estimate it will pay for itself in 2-5 years.
\n\n\n\nMaintaining natural grass is a constant expense; mowing, seeding, fertilizing, weeding, and more. Artificial turf requires a significant investment upfront for installation but costs very little to maintain.
\n\n\n\nOnce installed, synthetic grass requires only a regular hosing down. If you have an incident where part of the turf is damaged, you can replace just a section.
\n\n\n\n1. Does fake grass get warmer than natural grass?
\n\n\n\nYes. Artificial turf gets on average 5-10 degrees hotter than natural grass on a hot day. You can compensate for this by making sure sections of the synthetic lawn are in the shade.
\n\n\n\n2. Is artificial grass flammable?
\n\n\n\nNo! While the blades of fake grass can and will melt from sparks from a fire pit or grill, synthetic turf is not flammable and will not burst into flames. If a small section of the lawn gets damaged by excessive heat, you can easily replace it.
\n\n\n\n3. Can I install artificial grass on top of my existing lawn?
\n\n\n\nNo. In order to have a lawn that drains well when it rains or snows, you should install fake grass over rocks or stones on the ground after removing existing natural grass has been dug out.
\n\n\n\n4. Can I have artificial grass in snowy areas?
\n\n\n\nYes, freezing temperatures and snow don’t affect fake grass. Allow snow to melt naturally and drain through your synthetic lawn’s drainage system.
\n\n\n\nDon’t have the time or energy to install an artificial lawn? We can find a landscaping pro near you to install it for you.
\n\n\n\nMain photo credit: Flickr | CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"4 Reasons to Switch to Artificial Grass","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.499267935578331,"src":"/static/7523300963d5c0aebf9aa59839b2f51a/1789c/rsz_3429161484_d0d9ff11fe_b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7523300963d5c0aebf9aa59839b2f51a/107df/rsz_3429161484_d0d9ff11fe_b.jpg 320w,\n/static/7523300963d5c0aebf9aa59839b2f51a/293e9/rsz_3429161484_d0d9ff11fe_b.jpg 500w,\n/static/7523300963d5c0aebf9aa59839b2f51a/f2cbb/rsz_3429161484_d0d9ff11fe_b.jpg 800w,\n/static/7523300963d5c0aebf9aa59839b2f51a/1789c/rsz_3429161484_d0d9ff11fe_b.jpg 960w,\n/static/7523300963d5c0aebf9aa59839b2f51a/a2a79/rsz_3429161484_d0d9ff11fe_b.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/7523300963d5c0aebf9aa59839b2f51a/1dd6e/rsz_3429161484_d0d9ff11fe_b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7523300963d5c0aebf9aa59839b2f51a/67b76/rsz_3429161484_d0d9ff11fe_b.webp 320w,\n/static/7523300963d5c0aebf9aa59839b2f51a/8df11/rsz_3429161484_d0d9ff11fe_b.webp 500w,\n/static/7523300963d5c0aebf9aa59839b2f51a/98a65/rsz_3429161484_d0d9ff11fe_b.webp 800w,\n/static/7523300963d5c0aebf9aa59839b2f51a/1dd6e/rsz_3429161484_d0d9ff11fe_b.webp 960w,\n/static/7523300963d5c0aebf9aa59839b2f51a/7aa54/rsz_3429161484_d0d9ff11fe_b.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Reasons to Switch to Artificial Grass | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Why switch to artificial grass? It will save your time, water, and money in the long run."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"bd23c7a6-56c1-5baf-b0d7-e3b495e7ae45","slug":"pre-emergent-herbicides","path":"/blog/pre-emergent-herbicides/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2023","excerpt":"There’s nothing worse to a lawn fanatic than pouring time and effort into caring for your grass, only to find weeds popping out, ruining your lawn. After the money and effort you’ve put into maintaining your yard, no one would blame you for screaming at the top of your lungs at the sight of lawn […]
\n","content":"\nThere’s nothing worse to a lawn fanatic than pouring time and effort into caring for your grass, only to find weeds popping out, ruining your lawn. After the money and effort you’ve put into maintaining your yard, no one would blame you for screaming at the top of your lungs at the sight of lawn weeds. Don’t worry. We get it, and we got you. This article explains how and when to apply pre-emergent herbicides to prevent weeds from ever sprouting in your lawn again.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nThe timing of pre-emergent herbicide application is everything. Pre-emergents will not help you with pesky dandelions or foxtails that seem to be stalking you if they are already sprouting in your lawn. You must apply pre-emergent herbicides before the times of year when weed seeds begin to germinate.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSpring pre-emergent herbicide applications prevent summer annual weeds, like goosegrass and crabgrass. Apply when the soil temperature is about 55 degrees or higher for 48 hours or longer.
\n\n\n\nThe month or time of the month you apply weed control will be determined by what part of the country you live in since climates and weather differ according to location. That’s why it’s better to sync your herbicide applications with the soil temperature rather than a specific date. You can find a soil thermometer online or at your local gardening supply store for less than $10.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApplying pre-emergent herbicide in the early fall prevents winter annual weeds, like common chickweed and annual bluegrass. Apply when the soil temperature falls to around 70 degrees for three days or more.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Bouillante / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUse the product as instructed on the package, including following the proper measurement amounts per area covered. It is also important that you protect yourself from these toxic chemicals.
\n\n\n\nProtective gear to wear when applying herbicides:
\n\n\n\nOnce you’re protected, you can apply pre-emergent herbicides in one of two ways, depending on whether the product you purchased is granular or liquid.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Professional](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader.jpg\")
Photo Credit: welcomia / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGranules are applied by hand or via a shaker bag or spreader. A spreader is best when covering a large area. A cup can be filled with granules and then shaken out from the cup onto the lawn, but this method can take a while.
\n\n\n\nWater the lawn after spreading granules so the herbicide can penetrate the soil, allowing the active ingredients to attack the weed seeds.
\n\n\n\nTools needed:
\n\n\n\nSteps:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Preparing-Pest-Control-Spraying-Equipment.jpg\")
Photo Credit: welcomia / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLiquid pre-emergents come in ready-to-use or concentrated forms. If the liquid is in concentrated form, it requires mixing with water, and a sprayer is used for application. Ready-to-use pre-emergents don’t need mixing and typically come in a spray bottle or sprayer.
\n\n\n\nTools needed:
\n\n\n\nSteps:
\n\n\n\nIf you’ve been doing your homework and researching weed control solutions, you have come across both pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides. Pre-emergent herbicides prevent seeds from germinating. They do not kill weed seeds that have already germinated or actively growing weeds.
\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, post-emergent herbicides control weeds that have sprouted and are growing.
\n\n\n\nA few herbicides contain chemicals that perform as both a pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicide. Products with Dithiopyr are examples.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Watering-Lawn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxHere
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe active ingredients in pre-emergents are triggered when watered, which allows the chemicals to penetrate the soil. The chemicals form a barricade on the top of the soil which stops seeds from germinating. Depending on the chemicals in the product, they may stop the roots from growing, prevent seed cell division, or inhibit growth enzymes.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIt’s important to make sure you get the right type of pre-emergent herbicide for your specific weed problem. Otherwise, you might end up hurting your lawn, too, and not just the weeds. The two categories of pre-emergent herbicides are selective and nonselective.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSelective herbicides control specific weeds without adversely affecting other plants. Most pre-emergent herbicides used for home lawns fall into this category.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNonselective herbicides kill all plants. Because of this, nonselective herbicides are used to spot-treat specific plants rather than being applied to the whole lawn or garden. Don’t apply nonselective herbicides around the same time you seed new grass, or they will prevent the grass from growing.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPre-emergents should only be used on turfgrass that has been established for at least one year. Grass can be damaged if pre-emergents are applied too soon after reseeding or overseeding the lawn.
\n\n\n\nSome cool-season grasses that can be injured by pre-emergent applications after the grass has been seeded are tall fescue and ryegrass. Warm-season grasses adversely affected are Bermudagrass and centipedegrass.
\n\n\n\nExamples of grasses that can be damaged by pre-emergent herbicides after sodding or sprigging are the warm-season grasses St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNot all weed killers kill all weeds. So, knowing the type of weed that is growing is important. Make sure you are identifying the weed correctly. Some weed killers destroy broadleaf weeds like spurge, clover, and ragweed. Others are chemically formulated to control grassy weeds, like foxtail and barnyardgrass.
\n\n\n\nAlso, knowing your grass type is important. As previously explained, certain weed killers are recommended for use on certain types of grass seed, while some come with a warning to never be used on specific grass types.
\n\n\n\nSome products are weed killers and fertilizers in one. But homeowners should only fertilize plants and lawns when they are growing actively. Therefore, using a weed and feed product may not be a good idea. Homeowners should never use a two-in-one herbicide on warm-season turfgrasses like Zoysiagrass and Bermudagrass.
\n\n\n\nHere are some examples of active ingredients in pre-emergent herbicides and what grass types or kinds of plants on which they can be used safely:
\n\n\n\nAtrazine:
\n\n\n\nBenefin:
\n\n\n\nDithiopyr:
\n\n\n\nIndaziflam:
\n\n\n\nProdiamine:
\n\n\n\nWait at least eight to 10 weeks after using weed killers to reseed your lawn, or the seeds can be killed by the weed control chemicals.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCorn gluten meal can be used on henbit in early spring to inhibit seed germination. If the seeds have already germinated, applying the meal can cause the weed to grow. Apply corn gluten meal when it is going to be dry for at least two days; roots in moist soil can absorb nutrients that activate weed growth. Monthly reapplications may be necessary.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGrass that is not properly maintained can result in weed growth. Lawns need to be mowed at the correct heights, fertilized regularly, and watered at the proper frequency to grow thick enough to crowd out weeds. Thin or bare turfgrass can promote weed growth.
\n\n\n\nIn gardens, new weed seeds can be introduced by mowers used on grass that had weeds. However, most weeds in gardens are from seeds that developed in previous years in the garden. Weeds can also emerge when plants are spaced too far apart.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHere are some things you can do to manage weeds:
\n\n\n\nHere are some proactive weed management tips:
\n\n\n\nWhile dinitroanilines control some broadleaf weeds, they do not control perennials, like nutsedges, for example.
\n\n\n\nHerbicides can contain chemicals that both attract and harm pets. Animals can be adversely affected by eating plants treated with herbicides and by inhaling the toxins from treated plants. Some tips to keep pets safe are:
\n\n\n\nBeing one step ahead of weeds is the only way to prevent them. If you know when weed seeds are germinating, you can apply pre-emergent herbicide to keep them from ever sprouting in your lawn. And if you prevent weeds, you’ll never have to pull them.
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes down to it, weed management can be a pain. You have to keep up with a regular schedule, and if you miss just one herbicide application, you could end up with a lawn full of weeds in no time. If you prefer to let someone else manage your lawn care, we can connect you with lawn care professionals in your area who can keep your lawn pristine and weed-free.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Henfaes / Canva Pro / License
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\n","content":"\nLearning how to install an in-ground lawn sprinkler system is nearly as easy as turning on the water. Home irrigation system kits now come with all the necessary components so you can install a multi-zone system in just two or three days.
\n\n\n\nExpect to spend around $500 for each zone, depending on the features you choose. Most yards will require 2 or 3 zones for complete coverage. A residential control system will cost between $175 and $200. So you can easily install a 2-zone system for about $1,500.
\n\n\n\nHere we’ll break down the 9-step process to help you install a lawn sprinkler system.
\n\n\n\nContents:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Prep](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_296-12530440930zpi.jpg\")
![\"Tech.](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_tech-sgt-mike-deangelo-a-facility-manager-from-the-129th-transportation-flight-63af96-1024.jpg\")
Most systems connect to an exterior water supply, much like connecting a garden hose to the valve at the side of the house. You may also be able to use a well or other water source. This can drastically cut down on the cost of running your irrigation system.
\n\n\n\nA programmable timer allows you to water your lawn regularly, applying the right amount of water at the right times. A watering schedule also keeps your lawn eco-friendly by conserving water, which helps save money.
\n\n\n\nYou can find the gallons per minute (GPM) average from your city, but for a more accurate measurement, you’ll want to do it yourself. Understanding the water pressure flowing through your system tells you how far each sprinkler head will reach and the amount of time you’ll need to run each zone.
\n\n\n\nAttach a pressure gauge to the outside spigot to measure the flow rate in pounds per square inch (PSI). For an accurate reading, all of the other faucets on your property should be turned off.
\n\n\n\nMost homes have a PSI between 40 and 80 PSI. Sprinkler system kits typically require between 30 and 50 PSI. Read the directions carefully to find the proper amount of water pressure for your system.
\n\n\n\nMany different in-ground lawn sprinkler systems are available, including smart systems that allow you to control everything from your phone via Wi-Fi. Research your options and choose the best fit for your yard, water pressure, climate, and lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nIf you have large areas to water, you may need to connect multiple zones. This isn’t any more complicated than just one zone. Consider an automatic sprinkler system that rotates through each zone regularly.
\n\n\n\nMultiple zones will help you care for areas that are shaded, get a lot of sun, are prone to puddling, or have recently been fertilized.
\n\n\n\nIn areas where it freezes in winter, you need to drain the system each autumn. This prevents freeze damage to the pipes, sprinklers, and valves. Winterizing can be a DIY job, but it might be best to hire a professional if this is your first in-ground sprinkler system.
\n\n\n\n1. What kind of piping should I use?
\n\n\n\nMost people use PVC pipes, but polyethylene is another option. Polyethylene pipes are flexible and well suited to colder climates with frequent freezes.
\n\n\n\n2. How do I know what size piping to use?
\n\n\n\nThe system’s piping must match the supply line. You can wrap a piece of string around the supply line to measure its size.
\n\n\n\n3. Do I need backflow prevention?
\n\n\n\nSome municipalities require backflow preventers, but it’s a good idea in all areas. Backflow prevention protects the main water supply from chemicals that may enter the system from your yard.
\n\n\n\n4. What do I do if a sprinkler head isn’t working?
\n\n\n\nFirst, check to see if the sprinkler head is clogged. If it’s free of debris, you might need to replace it. The good news is that it is pretty simple to replace a malfunctioning head.
\n\n\n\n5. Will a pop-up system work for my flower beds?
\n\n\n\nYes, but you should consider adding a drip irrigation system around flower beds. This will provide a more consistent and gentle watering system than an in-ground sprinkler system.
\n\n\n\n
If installing a lawn sprinkler system is a bit over your head, we can help you find a landscaping professional.
Main photo credit: Brenda Stuart | Wikilawn
\n","title":"How to Install an In-Ground Lawn Sprinkler System","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/1789c/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.jpg","srcSet":"/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/107df/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.jpg 320w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/293e9/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.jpg 500w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/f2cbb/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.jpg 800w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/1789c/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.jpg 960w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/c26c2/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/1dd6e/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/67b76/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.webp 320w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/8df11/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.webp 500w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/98a65/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.webp 800w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/1dd6e/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.webp 960w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/3cc96/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Install an In-Ground Lawn Sprinkler System | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Installing an in-ground sprinkler system is easy. We’ll detail 9 steps to show you how to install a lawn sprinkler system to keep your lawn healthy."}}},{"node":{"id":"c9424d28-4c80-554c-a8d1-1b81d57f7605","slug":"lime-for-lawns","path":"/blog/lime-for-lawns/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2023","excerpt":"You’re ready to take on the beautiful weather, but your lawn is not. Why is it not green when you just applied fertilizer? A yellow lawn that does not green up or look lush and healthy after it has been fertilized can be a sign that it is time for a lime treatment. This article […]
\n","content":"\nYou’re ready to take on the beautiful weather, but your lawn is not. Why is it not green when you just applied fertilizer? A yellow lawn that does not green up or look lush and healthy after it has been fertilized can be a sign that it is time for a lime treatment. This article explores why, when, and how to lime your lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nLime is a soil amendment that is made from ground limestone. Adding lime to a lawn raises the soil pH level, making it more alkaline and less acidic. The lawn is unable to absorb needed nutrients in acidic soil, which keeps the grass from thriving.
\n\n\n\nLime is made from calcium carbonate and other materials, like magnesium carbonate. There are two types of lime: dolomitic and calcitic.
\n\n\n\nCalcitic lime works well on soils that are not deficient in magnesium.
\n\n\n\nDolomitic lime is the most common type of lime used in lawns. It is made from calcium carbonate mixed with magnesium carbonate. Dolomitic lime is higher in magnesium than calcitic lime. If your soil is magnesium deficient, dolomitic lime is the best choice.
\n\n\n\nLime for lawns comes in liquid, powder, and pellet form. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some things to consider for each form:
\n\n\n\nLiquid
\n\n\n\nPowder
\n\n\n\nPellet
\n\n\n\nA lawn growing in overly acidic soil will not get the nutrients it needs when it is fertilized. The grass will experience problems and stop growing. When you add lime to your lawn, you raise the soil’s pH level, making it less acidic. This allows the grass roots to absorb the nutrients your grass needs to grow healthy, like calcium, nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus.
\n\n\n\nThe ideal pH for healthy grass is between 5.8 and 7.1. Your type of turfgrass determines where the soil pH level should fall in this range for optimal lawn growth. Warm-season grasses, like St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass, need a slightly lower pH. Cool-season grasses, like fescues and Kentucky bluegrass, require a moderately higher, more alkaline pH.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Soil](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/4542559854_43a56a102d_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ryo Chijiiwa / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLiming your lawn does not need to be a regular practice. You should only lime a lawn if the soil is too acidic. A soil test will reveal your soil’s pH and nutrient deficiencies, which will tell you whether your lawn needs lime or not.
\n\n\n\nBut what are the tell-tale signs that a soil test is needed? These are indicators that a lawn might need lime:
\n\n\n\nThe ideal time for lime treatments is the fall and spring, with a preference for the fall. Conventional lime products can take months to break down and modify soil acidity. The changes in the weather from fall to spring help these products break down. If you apply lime in fall, it will be broken down by spring, and your soil will be ready for a new year of healthy growth.
\n\n\n\nSome more advanced lime agents start working immediately and can be applied any season.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou do not want to add too much lime too often. Soil that is too acidic should be tested annually until it is at the ideal pH level. Give the lime application time to work. If you added lime in the spring, test the soil again in the fall, and vice versa.
\n\n\n\nOnce the soil pH is balanced, test it every 1 to 2 years. Only apply lime again if the pH drops below the ideal range.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJust like there is an ideal time to lime your lawn, there are also times when you should avoid applying it. To make sure your lime treatment is effective, do not add lime in the following conditions:
\n\n\n\nThere are some things you will need to do to prepare your lawn for lime treatment. You will need to know your lawn’s size. Be sure to wear protective gear, like gloves and a mask.
\n\n\n\nHere are the preparatory and application steps to lime your lawn:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Soil](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Soil-Testing.jpg\")
Photo Credit: CSIRO / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBefore you lime your grass, always start with a soil pH test. Liming when you do not need to can harm your lawn.
\n\n\n\nYour soil type will determine the amount of lime you need to add to increase or decrease the soil pH. Homeowners should contact their local county extension office to inquire about receiving a soil test kit and sending in a soil sample. Although a kit can be purchased from a local garden center, the county extension service will provide a more accurate report.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dethatcher2-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Agri-Fab, Inc. / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf there is a significant layer of thatch between the grass and the soil, dethatch the lawn before aerating. Dethatching removes organic debris that could prevent lime from getting to the soil.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Grass](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/f5363534-cb37-4d68-a32a-0b9c32dca178.jpg\")
Photo Credit: macniak / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUse a core aerator to loosen the soil before applying lime. Lawn aeration opens up small holes in compacted soil, allowing soil amendments like lime to break down more easily.
\n\n\n\nThe dethatching and aeration process does not have to immediately precede lime application. In the case of warm-season grasses, which should not be dethatched and aerated in the fall, it is okay to do so in late spring and add lime in the fall. You can also dethatch and aerate in the late spring and lime afterward.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses can be dethatched and aerated in the fall right before you add lime.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Person](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Lime-Pellets-for-Lawn-Care.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Imagesbybarbara / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe soil test results will typically recommend how many pounds of lime are needed per 1,000 square feet. If the grass needs between 50 and 100 pounds, apply it in two different applications. Administer the first half in the spring and the remaining amount in the fall. Never put more than 50 pounds of lime per 1,000 square feet on the grass at one time.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Seed](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/seed-spreader.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jon Rehg / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLime Pellets. Use a drop spreader or rotary spreader and disseminate half of the lime by walking across your lawn in parallel lines, back and forth. After the first round of application, apply the remaining lime by walking in lines perpendicular to your first application. This will increase your chances of thorough coverage.
\n\n\n\nLiquid Lime. Read the product label to determine how much you will need to apply. Walk across your lawn in straight lines as you spray, just like with pellets. Spray side-to-side as you walk for uniform coverage.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Person](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Watering-Hose.jpg\")
Photo Credit: AnthonyRosenberg / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHelp the lime soak into the soil by watering the lawn. This will also keep lime from sitting on the grass blades and burning them. For liquid lime, follow the package instructions regarding how soon to water after application.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYes. A lawn with too much lime can change the pH of the soil to a level that prevents the grass from thriving. It can create overly alkaline soil, preventing grass blades from getting the nutrients they need. The grass can eventually turn yellow and die if too much lime continues to be added.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHomeowners should wear a mask when handling powder lime. Pellet lime may be attractive to pets and children, so be sure to keep them off the lawn while the pellets are still visible. Lime pellets are harmful if ingested and can irritate the skin and eyes.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRunoff from heavy rainfall can remove calcium from the soil. Calcium loss leads to a drop in pH and, eventually, acidic soil. If your area does not get heavy rain, calcium is not removed from runoff, and the grass can become overly alkaline. Maintaining your lawn appropriately, including watering and fertilizing it, will also eventually lower the pH level.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNo. If your lawn needs a lime application, that means it is too acidic and cannot properly absorb the nutrients from fertilizer. You’ll need to add the lime first and give it a few months to absorb into the soil. After a few months, test your soil again. If the soil pH is within the appropriate range, you can then fertilize the lawn.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLiming your lawn is an art and science. You need to know when to lime, what type of lime to use, the best time of year for lime treatments, and the best form of lime to apply. This is the science. The art is in the ability to produce a beautiful lawn for years to come.
\n\n\n\n
You do not have to deal with the intricacies of liming your lawn and other landscaping tasks on your own. From adding lime to controlling weeds to mowing the grass, WikiLawn can connect you with qualified lawn care pros in your area to handle all your lawn care needs.
Main Photo Credit: welcomia / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"Lime for Lawns: Why, When, and How to Lime Your Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/325a9ee3cf0867b4b243795e4518998e/1789c/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/325a9ee3cf0867b4b243795e4518998e/107df/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/325a9ee3cf0867b4b243795e4518998e/293e9/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/325a9ee3cf0867b4b243795e4518998e/f2cbb/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/325a9ee3cf0867b4b243795e4518998e/1789c/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/325a9ee3cf0867b4b243795e4518998e/c26c2/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/325a9ee3cf0867b4b243795e4518998e/1dd6e/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/325a9ee3cf0867b4b243795e4518998e/67b76/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader-1.webp 320w,\n/static/325a9ee3cf0867b4b243795e4518998e/8df11/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader-1.webp 500w,\n/static/325a9ee3cf0867b4b243795e4518998e/98a65/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader-1.webp 800w,\n/static/325a9ee3cf0867b4b243795e4518998e/1dd6e/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader-1.webp 960w,\n/static/325a9ee3cf0867b4b243795e4518998e/3cc96/Professional-Gardener-with-Lawn-and-Garden-Seed-Spreader-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Lime for Lawns: Why, When, and How to Lime Your Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Find out the signs a lawn needs to be limed, the best time of year to do so, why it is important to do so, and the steps to lime your lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"dc7f3dac-5cba-5ff9-a672-1b00d6dddc6d","slug":"benefits-of-french-drain","path":"/blog/benefits-of-french-drain/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Carmen Dexter is a freelance journalist and teacher who enjoys growing her own organic food and recycling as much as possible.","name":"Carmen Dexter","id":"f23ec685-a615-5004-a3fd-c0bfe6b2c9ec","path":"/author/carmen-dexter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/e37085a8a22d319f3383613d59d54c5f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"}],"date":"September 1st, 2022","excerpt":"You spent a ton of money on landscaping but forgot to add a drainage system. If standing water is now causing problems, homeowners should look into a French drain. Why? Benefits of a French drain include that it prevents standing water, stops soil erosion, and protects your home’s foundation. In this article we’ll cover these […]
\n","content":"\nYou spent a ton of money on landscaping but forgot to add a drainage system. If standing water is now causing problems, homeowners should look into a French drain. Why? Benefits of a French drain include that it prevents standing water, stops soil erosion, and protects your home’s foundation.
\n\n\n\nIn this article we’ll cover these topics:
\n\n\n\nIt sounds a little ooh-la-la but a French drain is simply a trench dug into the ground for excess water to drain out of your yard. Built on a slight slope, a French drain can be 6 inches in diameter to a couple of feet, the wider the better. It functions a bit like the gutters on your house by forcing the water flow downhill and away from your home’s foundation.
\n\n\n\nMost French drains now have a perforated pipe in the trench, although the original drains simply used gravel or small rocks on top of a ditch. The rock element is used whether there is a pipe or not, as it’s permeable and water flows through.
\n\n\n\nThis underground drainage system works well for lawns with poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nExcess water from your yard flows through the French drain and into the street gutter or a dry well. And because a perforated pipe is used, water is collected throughout the entire drainage system.
\n\n\n\nIf your yard repeatedly floods or you experience basement flooding, a French drain may work for you. If there is always standing water in your yard after a good rain, this may be a good drainage solution. Even if you have a sump pump in your basement, an interior French drain can help by redirecting excess water to the sump, where it can then be pumped out.
\n\n\n\nIf you have a retaining wall or are building one on a hill or slope, a French drain system will keep water from pooling at the bottom of the wall or running toward your home. A French drain redirects surface water away from the retaining wall so it won’t undermine the structure.
\n\n\n\nHere are four benefits of installing a French drain in your yard.
\n\n\n\nA French drain:
\n\n\n\nPrevents Standing Water
\n\n\n\nMosquitoes love puddles. Standing water in your lawn becomes a breeding ground for the pesky and sometimes disease-carrying bugs.
\n\n\n\nExcess water encourages mold and fungus growth on your grass and even kills it and other plants by drowning them. That, in turn, creates mud that gets tracked into your house.
\n\n\n\nA French drain removes standing water by draining it downhill. It redirects the overflow to run through the trench, into the street gutter and down the storm drain.
\n\n\n\nStops Soil Erosion
\n\n\n\nHealthy soil is a must for a lush, green lawn. Too much surface water may cause soil erosion by washing away topsoil, the top layer that’s necessary for the growth of grass and plants. That may leave you with a muddy, grass-less mess. Adding a French drain to your yard keeps topsoil right where it needs to be, ensuring that your lawn and landscaping remain bright and healthy.
\n\n\n\nProtects Home’s Foundation
\n\n\n\nA huge benefit of a French drain is the protection it provides for your home’s foundation and basement.
\n\n\n\nWhen water builds up against foundations, the hydrostatic pressure (the constant force the water puts on your basement walls) can erode the concrete and threaten the structural integrity of the foundation. How to prevent this? A homeowner or builder might include a French drain system in the basement waterproofing.
\n\n\n\nWooden foundations and crawl spaces are also susceptible to damage from water pressure, as the wood can rot and crumble and concrete footings can crack.
\n\n\n\nFrench drains work particularly well in land with clay soil. This type of soil drains slowly, so adding a trench to the yard removes water before it can cause damage to your property.
\n\n\n\nThe same principle applies when building a retaining wall in your yard. A French drain removes hydrostatic pressure from the wall, keeping it stable and in place.
\n\n\n\nAdds Value
\n\n\n\nA French drain is beneficial beyond removing excess water from your yard; it can add value to your property by protecting your home’s foundation. Prospective buyers want to know that their home won’t be threatened by standing water and a French drain gives them that peace of mind.
\n\n\n\nDepending on how decorative you make the trench, a French drain also adds a pleasant hardscaping element to your lawn. You can use colored rocks instead of gravel, smooth or rough and different shapes and sizes. River rock, for example, gives the look of a dry creek bed.
\n\n\n\nSome homeowners use plants to camouflage the French drain. Flowers or other plants run the length of the trench, hiding the trench. You can also add borders around the French drain of concrete, pavers, or crushed quartz.
\n\n\n\nHere are some potential problems to be aware of if you’re considering a French drain for your yard.
\n\n\n\nClogs
\n\n\n\nA clogged drain is an inefficient drain and can even cause damage. Clogging is the biggest issue French drain owners face. Water often carries sediment through the pipe, creating mud that may cause blockages.
\n\n\n\nClogs are also caused by the roots of trees, grass, and scrubs encroaching on the pipe and trench. When a French drain is clogged, water isn’t properly redirected. This leads to leaks that may damage your home’s foundation or create standing water in other areas.
\n\n\n\nBackflow
\n\n\n\nBackflow is when groundwater seeps into the soil and the dry well fills up, leaving excess water with nowhere to go. This causes the water flow to go back up the drainage system and leave standing water in the basement or in the original problem area.
\n\n\n\nHomeowners with access to the city gutters and storm sewer system don’t usually have this problem. Those without that access may have to redirect the water somewhere else.
\n\n\n\nZoning Rules
\n\n\n\nIt’s key to know city zoning rules BEFORE you start a French drain installation, so check with your local zoning board to see if you need a permit.
\n\n\n\nIt’s imperative that homeowners not dig into utility lines. Call 811 and put in a utility line locator request before you lift that first shovel full of dirt.
\n\n\n\nThere’s quite a bit of digging involved but a French drain can be a DIY project. Factors on deciding whether to tackle it yourself include the length and depth of the ditch and what kind of hardscape you choose to surround it with.
\n\n\n\nAs a bonus, installing a French drain won’t cost you a fortune or take much time, and your yard won’t be wrecked as a result. You only need to consult a professional to ensure the French drain is being installed correctly.
\n\n\n\nMain photo credit: Geograph | CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"Benefits of a French Drain","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/cdd804e86de3157b9aa63721696c5dbd/1789c/rsz_untitled_design.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cdd804e86de3157b9aa63721696c5dbd/107df/rsz_untitled_design.jpg 320w,\n/static/cdd804e86de3157b9aa63721696c5dbd/293e9/rsz_untitled_design.jpg 500w,\n/static/cdd804e86de3157b9aa63721696c5dbd/f2cbb/rsz_untitled_design.jpg 800w,\n/static/cdd804e86de3157b9aa63721696c5dbd/1789c/rsz_untitled_design.jpg 960w,\n/static/cdd804e86de3157b9aa63721696c5dbd/c26c2/rsz_untitled_design.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/cdd804e86de3157b9aa63721696c5dbd/1dd6e/rsz_untitled_design.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cdd804e86de3157b9aa63721696c5dbd/67b76/rsz_untitled_design.webp 320w,\n/static/cdd804e86de3157b9aa63721696c5dbd/8df11/rsz_untitled_design.webp 500w,\n/static/cdd804e86de3157b9aa63721696c5dbd/98a65/rsz_untitled_design.webp 800w,\n/static/cdd804e86de3157b9aa63721696c5dbd/1dd6e/rsz_untitled_design.webp 960w,\n/static/cdd804e86de3157b9aa63721696c5dbd/3cc96/rsz_untitled_design.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Benefits of a French Drain | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Benefits of a French drain include that it prevents standing water, stops soil erosion, and protects your home's foundation."}}},{"node":{"id":"4ffe5de5-d22a-50e4-9c09-43d605c75e25","slug":"6-organizing-tips-to-tidy-up-your-yard","path":"/blog/landscaping/6-organizing-tips-to-tidy-up-your-yard/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"}],"date":"June 5th, 2019","excerpt":"What is a backyard if not an extension of one’s soul? Okay, that may be a bit dramatic, but what’s the point of having that yard if you don’t maintain it well? Your lawn is a part of your property strangers can often look into without having to be welcomed into your home, so keeping […]
\n","content":"\nWhat is a backyard if not an extension of one’s soul? Okay, that may be a bit dramatic, but what’s the point of having that yard if you don’t maintain it well? Your lawn is a part of your property strangers can often look into without having to be welcomed into your home, so keeping it organized is crucial to maintaining the right appearances in your neighborhood. It is one of many ways to improve your all-important curb appeal. Though there is a lot of open space in the typical yard, keeping the rest well organized does take some effort and wise thinking. Try these tips to keep your backyard items well maintained and stored correctly.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/lawnmowers-yelloe.jpg\")
It’s possible to store most lawn care products and other backyard items without much maintenance. The main exception would be lawnmowers or other motorized lawn equipment. Drain any fuel or other fluids put inside these tools before they are stored long-term. In the winter, make sure to empty the fuel tank of the mower before putting it away in the garage or shed. If the items are stored outdoors, try to keep them above ground to prevent snow and water from getting to them.
\n\n\n\nRead more: Here Are the Best Push Lawn Mowers of 2019
\n\n\n\nOutdoor grills can get dirty during a busy summer, so cleaning a grill before putting it in storage is always wise. A grill brush can be a big help with the job. Weber Grills has a helpful guide on their site that helps walk through the steps owners of each kind of grill should take before storing their grills. Whatever grill you have, it can be stored indoors or outdoors during the winter, but a propane tank should always be stored outside. If you choose to store your grill outdoors, a grill cover can help protect its exterior from the elements.
\n\n\n\nMost items that kids love to play with at the pool are pretty low maintenance, but it always helps to break down these pool toys and accessories to their smallest components. That means disassembling the pool basketball hoop, deflating the floating pool toys, and folding all the towels.
\n\n\n\nThere’s always an item or two that can be removed to create extra space in any outdoor space. Many people don’t refresh their lawn decorations or leave some out far too long. Others keep broken or worn down lawn equipment, flower pots or watering instruments around as it can be difficult to throw them out.
\n\n\n\nThe shed or garage close to your outdoor space can often become the place where items to be sold, donated, or thrown out are put. It generally feels easier to move these items temporarily than it is actually to get rid of them. Determine a workflow to assess which of these seeming superfluous items are worth keeping, and figure out what to do with the rest (selling, donating, dumping) that makes the most sense.
\n\n\n\nDecluttering your backyard makes the outdoor living space more inviting and more functional for your friends and family… or neighbors. When you have too much stuff just lying around and taking up space in your yard, the point this summer should be to declutter it. The golden rule is the less you have, the less you need to store. Just like when you’re looking at renting a storage space or preparing for a long distance move, throwing away or donating items means fewer things for you to worry about.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/4757379661_316dfa218f_z.jpg\")
Need more space to store things in and around your yard? There are a few convenient yard storage solutions. Add storage racks or buy shelves to go alongside the walls of the garage, and you’ll make more use out of the space right next to your yard. In the yard, a storage shed or deck box can make an unassuming place to put some items that belong in the yard but aren’t always being used. The deck box or shed can blend into a yard much like an ottomans blend into a living room. A wine rack as a holder for clean – rolled-up towels and a water-proof coat rack is a great solution for hanging wet towels to dry.
\n\n\n\nThe elements are always a concern in the yard, so patio and other outdoor furniture should have covers that can be put on them upon notice of inclement weather. Clearing debris from the lawn can help prevent damage in cases of inclement weather too; don’t let a strong breeze cause one of your items to be dented. Cleaning your metal yard equipment like lawnmowers, grills, and gardening tools will help keep them from rusting and help them maintain their top effectiveness. Having a landscape layout that’s fit for your home is often about yard maintenance. But the reward of a photogenic and welcoming exterior on your property is worth it.
\n\n\n\nTop Photo: Flickr // Earthworm
\n","title":"Here Are 6 Organizing Tips to Tidy Up Your Yard","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/2dd8b8f1b972dfeb5e7d60568d96381f/1789c/backyard-clutter.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2dd8b8f1b972dfeb5e7d60568d96381f/107df/backyard-clutter.jpg 320w,\n/static/2dd8b8f1b972dfeb5e7d60568d96381f/293e9/backyard-clutter.jpg 500w,\n/static/2dd8b8f1b972dfeb5e7d60568d96381f/f2cbb/backyard-clutter.jpg 800w,\n/static/2dd8b8f1b972dfeb5e7d60568d96381f/1789c/backyard-clutter.jpg 960w,\n/static/2dd8b8f1b972dfeb5e7d60568d96381f/a2a79/backyard-clutter.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/2dd8b8f1b972dfeb5e7d60568d96381f/1dd6e/backyard-clutter.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2dd8b8f1b972dfeb5e7d60568d96381f/67b76/backyard-clutter.webp 320w,\n/static/2dd8b8f1b972dfeb5e7d60568d96381f/8df11/backyard-clutter.webp 500w,\n/static/2dd8b8f1b972dfeb5e7d60568d96381f/98a65/backyard-clutter.webp 800w,\n/static/2dd8b8f1b972dfeb5e7d60568d96381f/1dd6e/backyard-clutter.webp 960w,\n/static/2dd8b8f1b972dfeb5e7d60568d96381f/7aa54/backyard-clutter.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Here Are 6 Organizing Tips to Tidy Up Your Yard | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"9c0691da-f56c-546a-94e5-cef58facaeaf","slug":"how-to-choose-pet-safe-weed-killers","path":"/blog/how-to-choose-pet-safe-weed-killers/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Raven Wisdom is a screenwriter from West Texas and a proud mom of two in an autism family. Self-described as \"half-feral but mostly harmless\", Raven loves houseplants, a good laugh, and furry friends.","name":"Raven Wisdom","id":"4fb83156-96f1-58f1-8074-4a6c5c50eaaa","path":"/author/raven-wisdom/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a2813f63a6af9d07a7a5bb212b5645db?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"}],"date":"August 4th, 2022","excerpt":"Cats and dogs are curious by nature and will sniff or lick the chemicals you spray on your lawn. That’s why you need to know how to choose pet-safe weed killers. Rather than worry about an emergency trip to the vet, we’ll tell you how to select the safest weed killers for your lawn. Contents: […]
\n","content":"\nCats and dogs are curious by nature and will sniff or lick the chemicals you spray on your lawn. That’s why you need to know how to choose pet-safe weed killers.
\n\n\n\nRather than worry about an emergency trip to the vet, we’ll tell you how to select the safest weed killers for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nContents:
\n\n\n\nMany weed and grass killers contain toxic chemicals, which can cause serious harm to your pet. Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine found that using lawn chemicals, like glyphosate, increases a dog’s chance of developing cancer by up to 70%.
\n\n\n\nWhen looking for a pet-safe weed killer, pay close attention to the labels and check the active ingredients, certifications, types of weeds the product treats, and whether it’s a weed killer or weed preventer. Even if a product is labeled as “organic” or “pet-safe,” you still need to check what’s in it.
\n\n\n\nSome ingredients commonly found in animal-friendly herbicides include:
\n\n\n\nIf a product says it’s certified, do a little research and verify the organization or governing body that issued the certification. Some reputable organizations include Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) and California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF), which are private, non-profit groups.
\n\n\n\nYou should avoid using any chemical weed killers containing:
\n\n\n\nSeveral companies like Get Sunday, Preen, Green Gobbler, and Dr. Kirchner specialize in effective pet-safe weed killers that won’t harm your grass or flowers.
\n\n\n\nYou can make several homemade weed killers and avoid exposing your dog or cat to harsh chemicals. Make sure your homemade weed killer doesn’t contain anything that could harm your pet. Safe options include:
\n\n\n\n1. What are the symptoms of weed killer poisoning in pets?
\n\n\n\nThe signs to watch for include:
\n\n\n\nIf your pet displays these symptoms and you suspect they were exposed to toxic chemicals, contact your vet immediately.
\n\n\n\n2. How long should I wait to let my dogs on the lawn after applying a weed killer?
\n\n\n\nWait at least 24 hours to make sure the product has completely dried before letting your kids, cats, and dogs play on it. Watering your lawn the next day will help the products dissipate.
\n\n\n\n3. What do I do after spraying weed killer to keep my pet safe?
\n\n\n\nWait a couple of days and pull up the pesky weeds. Make sure you get the root. If the roots are intact, the weeds can grow back. Wait at least two days after applying weed killer to mow.
\n\n\n\n4. Are there any downsides to pet-friendly weed killers?
\n\n\n\nYes. They don’t work as quickly, can be less effective on certain weeds, and vinegar-based solutions can increase the salt levels in your soil.
\n\n\n\n5. How do pet-safe weed killers work?
\n\n\n\nMost ingredients like vinegar, salt, and soap, dry out the plant, and corn gluten meal prevents seeds from sprouting.
Got a yard full of weeds but little time to get rid of them? We can help you find an eco-garden pro or lawn care professional who can handle the problem while you and your furry friend relax.
Main photo credit: Pxhere
\n","title":"How to Choose Pet-Safe Weed Killers","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5018773466833542,"src":"/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/1789c/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/107df/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.jpg 320w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/293e9/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.jpg 500w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/f2cbb/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.jpg 800w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/1789c/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.jpg 960w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/c26c2/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/1dd6e/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/67b76/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.webp 320w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/8df11/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.webp 500w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/98a65/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.webp 800w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/1dd6e/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.webp 960w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/3cc96/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Choose Pet-Safe Weed Killers | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"You can avoid an expensive trip to the vet if you know how to choose pet-safe weed killers for your lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"280fcb8d-560d-5e7f-98bb-3dbfa40ef697","slug":"why-lawn-care-is-essential-service","path":"/lawn-care/why-lawn-care-is-essential-service/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Brenda Stuart is a radio journalist and content manager whose goal is to have the greenest lawn and prettiest garden on the block.","name":"Brenda Stuart","id":"fcad9a7b-532b-583f-832f-0cffbbcfa0a3","path":"/author/brendastuartryangmail-com/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/5e5ae7b8ac8b21db046b4f507fbec2aa?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"April 9th, 2020","excerpt":"Food. Clothing. Shelter. Lawn care. All are essential to well-being. No one questions by the first three, but lawn care? While it might not seem so at first glance, there are good reasons many state and local governments have deemed lawn care is an essential service, even during a pandemic. Public Safety Mother Nature didn’t […]
\n","content":"\nFood. Clothing. Shelter. Lawn care. All are essential to well-being. No one questions by the first three, but lawn care? While it might not seem so at first glance, there are good reasons many state and local governments have deemed lawn care is an essential service, even during a pandemic.
\n\n\n\nMother Nature didn’t get the memo about self-isolation, and springtime plant growth is going full-tilt. Those weeds coming up in the sidewalk cracks and tall grasses growing along roadways are more than a visual issue. They present a public safety hazard. Unchecked weeds can make passage near impossible for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users in particular. Weeds also compromise walkways over time, leading to cracking and heaving. Anything that forces wheelchair users into roadways is dangerous for obvious reasons.
\n\n\n\nOvergrown grasses, shrubs, and trees in medians and public right-of-ways impairs your visibility along roads with blind turns and intersections. No wonder the National Association of Landscape Professionals petitioned the federal government to affirm that lawn care should bear the essential service label.
\n\n\n\nTall grasses and weeds give a yard an unkempt look, but that’s the least of your worries. The reason that hundreds of cities, counties and homeowners associations regulate lawn length is due to public health and safety. Those regulations have been upheld many times in court cases, and the consequences for failure to comply range from fines to foreclosure. So if a local agency can threaten a lien against your property for not mowing grass, they can hardly claim it isn’t an essential service.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/grass-snake-pixabay-634639_1280.jpg\")
The reasons are many. An overgrown lawn is an open invitation for snakes looking for a place to lay eggs. Insect vectors of disease thrive in tall grass and weedy areas. Rodents, fleas, mosquitoes, and ticks are all more than happy to nest in neglected yards, where they pose a threat to humans and pets. Ticks and fleas are a serious concern. They carry Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and a form of encephalitis. Our health care system has enough to deal with right now, without worrying about insect born diseases. Keeping vegetation under control is necessary for keeping dangerous insects in check.
\n\n\n\nWhile trees and shrubs provide privacy and shade, they also need to be maintained to stay healthy and reduce risks. Trees with weak or dead branches pose a threat to our roofs. Purdue Univerity urban forestry specialist Lindsey Purcell says, “The most important reason to prune a mature tree is to reduce the risk of tree failure, especially in the crown. This includes removing weak branches on a tree in decline or branches damaged by a storm.” He recommends cutting in late spring to minimize the risk of infection to the tree. It’s also easier to spot damage and dead branches when buds and leaves emerge.
\n\n\n\nAnother important aspect of maintaining grass, shrubs, and other landscape plants? Home security. Tall grass and shrubs contribute to opportunities for crime, giving ne’er-do-wells places to hide. Unattended trees and shrubs also obscure the view of security cameras or block the view of address numbers. Wayward branches can even injure pedestrians walking by your yard. Proper lawn care and yard maintenance can help to keep you, your home, and your neighbors safe.
\n\n\n\nMental health and a tidy landscape go hand in hand. Service lapses in fields, parks, homes, and businesses can quickly lead to chaotic-looking neighborhoods, which can take a mental toll on residents. Josh Perkins, owner of Plant Studio Landscape in Muncie, Ind., points out, “If all the landscapers stopped working, our cities would look like a scene out of an apocalypse movie, fast.” He goes on to note that, “Everything would look rundown, and it would be hard to recover from.” Maintaining a landscape is no different from maintaining a vehicle, he says: All the ongoing care you put into a landscape ensures it will continue to function in the future.
\n\n\n\nFar from being a luxury, lawn care is justifiably categorized as essential in almost every major municipality. Keep in mind, some cities consider lawn and tree care essential, but professional mulching and flower bed prep can wait. For national health, safety, and well-being, we need to make sure that our yards and properties stay maintained during this difficult time.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/lindsey-purcell.jpg\")
Lindsey Purcell is an urban forestry specialist who teaches at Purdue’s College of Agriculture. He also serves as executive director of the Indiana Arborists Association. He’s a certified arborist who once served as the forestry supervisor with the city of Indianapolis and the director of operations for The Nature Conservancy of Indiana.
\n\n\n","title":"Why Lawn Care Is an Essential Service in a Pandemic","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.915873015873016,"src":"/static/2626c31fceed85b7032aeb0a4b348958/1789c/rsz_lawn-care-weed-whacker-tall-grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2626c31fceed85b7032aeb0a4b348958/107df/rsz_lawn-care-weed-whacker-tall-grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/2626c31fceed85b7032aeb0a4b348958/293e9/rsz_lawn-care-weed-whacker-tall-grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/2626c31fceed85b7032aeb0a4b348958/f2cbb/rsz_lawn-care-weed-whacker-tall-grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/2626c31fceed85b7032aeb0a4b348958/1789c/rsz_lawn-care-weed-whacker-tall-grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/2626c31fceed85b7032aeb0a4b348958/d434c/rsz_lawn-care-weed-whacker-tall-grass.jpg 1207w","srcWebp":"/static/2626c31fceed85b7032aeb0a4b348958/1dd6e/rsz_lawn-care-weed-whacker-tall-grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2626c31fceed85b7032aeb0a4b348958/67b76/rsz_lawn-care-weed-whacker-tall-grass.webp 320w,\n/static/2626c31fceed85b7032aeb0a4b348958/8df11/rsz_lawn-care-weed-whacker-tall-grass.webp 500w,\n/static/2626c31fceed85b7032aeb0a4b348958/98a65/rsz_lawn-care-weed-whacker-tall-grass.webp 800w,\n/static/2626c31fceed85b7032aeb0a4b348958/1dd6e/rsz_lawn-care-weed-whacker-tall-grass.webp 960w,\n/static/2626c31fceed85b7032aeb0a4b348958/4ed27/rsz_lawn-care-weed-whacker-tall-grass.webp 1207w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Why Lawn Care Is an Essential Service in a Pandemic | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"eeec794e-9685-5fde-9f57-579e9dbc414c","slug":"best-landscaped-outdoor-wedding-venues","path":"/blog/landscaping/best-landscaped-outdoor-wedding-venues/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"}],"date":"June 5th, 2020","excerpt":"The term “wedding bell blues” has taken on a new meaning as the pandemic forces couples to postpone nuptials until it’s safe for crowds to gather. But as the $74 billion industry suffers, there’s a bright spot: Outdoor weddings are gaining in popularity. Outdoor wedding venues have always been popular. Tying the knot in Mother […]
\n","content":"\nThe term “wedding bell blues” has taken on a new meaning as the pandemic forces couples to postpone nuptials until it’s safe for crowds to gather. But as the $74 billion industry suffers, there’s a bright spot: Outdoor weddings are gaining in popularity.
\n\n\n\nOutdoor wedding venues have always been popular. Tying the knot in Mother Nature carries a splendor no indoor venue can match. Choosing a beautiful garden or vista can save you an average of $1,500 on wedding flowers. And now there’s a new reason to consider them, since they can keep guests safer with social distancing and avoiding recirculated air.
\n\n\n\nSo if you’re considering an outdoor wedding venue, we’ve made it easier by compiling a list of the best, with a special focus on landscaping and natural beauty. Below are the winners of Wikilawn’s “Wiki Wonder Award” for best landscaped wedding venues.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/best_venue_badge.png\"){kind=icon}
To win the Wiki-award badge of honor, the venue must have several selling points:
\n\n\n\nWeeding the list down to the best was challenging. We now know what brides go through when choosing the site for her picture-perfect wedding. We hope this list will make things a little less stressful.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/jP2oGeISjwPECaOEp-mriyU4qBjTCiKSXinEeFk9COyrrLtmbjXXQ3hc4b_TDI2ZpIOYDZjjtuU4Ndq4-eMa9Lp1Xfj2oLExsQBw8M7WQR7H7e_-wXYq0GG6TFYJ30B_8eZFvkga\")
Calling itself the “emerald jewel in the crown of Atlanta culture,” the Botanical Garden opened in 1976. It’s become one of the city’s most popular wedding sites, but choosing your setting isn’t an easy task, as there are so many gorgeous backdrops. Want a serene forest setting? Got it. Lush tropical plants and the sound of waterfalls? Yep. Or go for the most popular ceremony site on the grounds: the Rose Garden, with brightly hued flowers and a brilliant green lawn.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Alice’s Wonderland Reimagined
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/lNhDIvYHR3xdOsR4M-9siNjJaPJJDeLI8EXij7yHhgPutKcVnu-kXH5y__sFnjRewV4iZ3pCfCc2AAMIOcQSlIGASy0m9B1SRRAT7S-OmjqvB3CRA2EX7z2kS2-1r6CYxpbKfEHr\")
This historic mansion on Atlanta’s Peachtree Street was the talk of the town when it was built 116 years ago. Amos Rhodes was inspired by homes he saw when traveling through the German Rhineland and built this house for his family. These days, Rhodes Hall is a museum and the setting for numerous weddings. You can hold your ceremony inside, but the outdoor backdrop features a magnificent green lawn, flowers, and trees against large stone arches.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Going Green
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/HOT2Blqi3IL_AwDWpiOeupzurxaLjNC-0ksOGNTvAn9aMn2gR_-crMrMEa8Cm1rCi2Z3HXzaQ2V7PdqZ851glJ41jPSw1A5N_t7uxjEA2mMJ9PGeoeOsq1DRCkGXFAh86mDC7lz4\")
The Contemporary Austin has a lofty goal: to be an essential part of city life. With a unique combination of both urban and outdoor sites, the museum has something for everyone. The Contemporary occupies a downtown space that housed a drugstore 150 years ago. Several renovations later, it became The Contemporary in 1998. Many couples looking for a downtown wedding choose this site for the renowned Moody Rooftop, featuring a breathtaking view of downtown, including the Capitol.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Create at Home
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/vcN71kHI2Vndv0IAIxROm6Wc1OXvJRfeD3w8xL72B_av1zvCHRJinPgo9HhDwckTKmOatDXHsJqzSDmISt5vuVFjg5M8eBDGUGoL3DiQrWgFXJ-fiiyjTnslVPLDYDGPQIipWGAB\")
Atlanta, known as “the Gate City” since 1857, after the railroad system was completed, is home to this landmark. Back then, Atlanta was the gateway from the Atlantic Ocean to the west by train. Now, this 100-foot tall monument is the backdrop for weddings held in its courtyard. Ceremonies take place on the oval lawn, nestled inside Roman columns and surrounded by green trees and shrubs. There’s even a pond with a fountain.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Collections Highlights
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Rkf-iZQrNXFghJYiIpXjrGzcbTquKwQi1yNZt4khHcoQxrCHV3_6NXIUU1Cy8KjkuMi6aDuO9kTZ8XzRKLkyPbk1NprMuGcSV5YJpnWZrO8t-xrGZ_Db3E0jC644JmHDn2lXKj5C\")
This historic site in the heart of Austin, Texas, has a fascinating and varied background. Built in 1856, the Neill-Cochran House Museum features the city’s only intact slave quarters. The Greek Revival home was also used as a school for the blind and, during the Civil War, a federal hospital. This antebellum venue features an outdoor space for weddings with stone pavers, trees, flowers, and privacy shrubs surrounded by history.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Dancing With the Demon Rum
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Zj5a7g4zSoxeN_KGKmXFu1VcG46m5EV03WJ96JV6jA6gvcnR0Sjb1y577LLycEtm7qKWAXW5lIl7SfNvBUNodg_cdVYUDiCbuekOckwUKNy1xpkUiz5l6ow_J57n0mq1H-PQ5mqG\")
Co-owner Tirzah Caffee grew up around weddings, thanks to her parents, who restored historic homes and turned them into wedding venues. The Alexander Homestead was built in 1903 in Charlotte, N.C., and was renovated to its present state in 2010. The outdoor space is full of vibrant flowerbeds, emerald-green hedges and trees, pathways, and water features with small bridges.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Stress Free: The Way Your Wedding Should Be
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/2nT5DK6JaEtksNSJNZ9eAnPlgyNG8-DwtclT-nL1rqp4XX7rq7rc7_NBDqxCBG3VbIcSIZO83vuGIufIvXZ_-MuoHrgvPA9eWEBqmNrziWnYx-mvWpbFmJJ1J6kWEVk2W8QFfpC9\")
The original Duke Mansion was built in 1915. Four years later, tobacco mogul James Buchanan Duke bought it and tripled its size. The Charlotte, N.C., property passed through many hands before landing with a foundation designed to preserve its history. The Duke Mansion operates as a small, upscale inn and hosts weddings 25 weekends a year, making it a much-sought-after site. Two outdoor spaces are available, each with beautiful grounds and brilliant flowers.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Mary DBT Semans Gardens
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ZhvmgtrpoU5VtbO6mnoYsvJn7wyB7dT7pSt4cHUQCOEBJ0OwJb07OiSUCZADib3fpHSy-CNetDO0UZubkGZIqGbkngCUJlCiZhA8R3uh50-a68wH1qcyX1VQ0xwzc8T2SiGTtR6w\")
The 18-acre Pinecroft estate sits right in the middle of a busy neighborhood in Cincinnati. The area was less developed when the estate was built in 1928 by inventor and former owner of the Cincinnati Reds, Powell Crosley, Jr. The mansion now belongs to Cincinnati Preservation and serves as an event center. The grounds feature a 5-acre lake, dozens of gardens, and a lavish pavilion, providing a variety of backdrops for weddings.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Rich English Elegance for Your Cincinnati Celebration
\n\n\n\nCincinnati Parks
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/QQbIS4ZTqDf6uA9-9yFi79V6bsnoxVzJ4jcui6-diajiuKUKd5pmqmhv65kIFY7k7gqRGk1LLylkNf_2hvClZ5w6gT2pb9pjg2YUZ9KybUwhBFCQDWtT3Im5s-XDeUC7vvIQ8DSd\")
Cincinnati’s first park started with a donation of land in 1817, laying the groundwork for today’s large city park system. Four of the parks offer wedding backdrops, including a mid-nineteenth century domed pavilion on a vast lawn. You’ll also find picturesque gazebos and arbor settings featuring both annual and perennial gardens.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Cincinnati Parks Rank 5th in the Nation
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/AQxJoVqlSIIB3H3OkChxem5SPtdkhVxIhrG8CGvLiP-RcPpyHBJkTddUQh_o2ijoxZv-W_S48gb7-DzXtuonyHBRoNRnVt-Te0OSmuYbyey-PwssNZICA3rf2-pHCjFXVuXgPMtD\")
Tucked away in a 15-acre park setting, Nationwide Hotels & Conference Center in Columbus, Ohio, is the perfect spot for outdoor weddings. Couples can choose from a patio overlooking a tranquil pond, a luxurious lawn with mature trees and vibrant floral displays, or a white pergola with clinging wisteria vines. The Nationwide Hotel hosts more than 75 weddings each year.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Send Them Off in Style
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/InuDUdWRsmQ_JO_MbADGu3dzm_z5leF0I_OcYEhw_55r4HPpEKMm7FrRpt9_Ge5Qv_CTtw9CRR3rtDtKgmiWEqQzDK64BMPRju7uERmzXkkmf8L7b8l8ytLnz6fSUpOkF8kuUPOJ\")
This banquet hall wedding venue near Columbus, Ohio, offers one-stop shopping for couples. The rustic setting features reclaimed wood, whiskey barrel tables, and a wrought iron arbor. The outdoor patio sits near a secluded stream and the garden is bursting with flowers. Guests can hold the ceremony and reception on-site, where meals are also prepared and a DJ is available, making wedding planning simple.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Ceremonies
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/JoWz-FVOol39gujChFoUZcksKGyVQM-aD7VEeqGq8cwd36HYSm7x9rhJJMO4qL0TQ198fmdw7bhH_WWKB7O0awOY10E5as4hzN5Mor-nbFPuOO7tR0i8ZnH_b6RX_fjHhhpduJnG\")
This country-like location is just 15 minutes from downtown Austin, Texas. Rambling Rose Ranch is home to horses, donkeys, goats, and chickens. The flagstone patio in the center of a large gravel floor is surrounded by gardens, potted flowers, and oak trees. Nearly all the decor was created by the ranch owners on a shoestring budget. It’s now one of Austin’s most popular wedding destinations.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Nature=Stress Relief
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7V71g1_YzcUTND7fDn7AUgc3ui3CiWJMWhHWFFWbUSBVPTq1DwRQHI00pf2jYUDZB7tcLDtiFcwmH9fVCJszX3dkMRnlfhtYebu5Cww4EiI8qZI2vE1lBFbM0dSxHQ66gmKpF9e_\")
The backdrop for this wedding venue is a beautifully designed and landscaped 18-hole golf course. The Reception House is managed by Schmidt’s, the city’s iconic food service legacy that goes back more than 100 years in Columbus. Seal your love on the greens or opt for a patio ceremony with a view of the idyllic setting.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Wedding Receptions
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/QWmzv-cuCE0kgB98AgroQOnwou0EIHw_CrxQDG9e3nOQiuqX8_E5sr4l_hUDipKYj__WKY5pmWlDpdBnLw0l7RsZqJXNM4eM9N-xzoN6XiztrRT4MPaYrmcLDrydad1fBwmueoxJ\")
Imagine dinner and dancing under the stars next to works by Picasso. That can be your wedding reality at the Nasher Sculpture Center in Dallas. The Nasher is home to more than 300 contemporary sculptures by famous artists and has hosted countless weddings. The intimate sculpture garden includes more than a hundred weeping willows, live oaks, and magnolias. The center is a past winner of an Honor Award from the American Society of Landscape Architects.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Sweet Pass Sculpture Park Revels in Looseness
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/QaPt7oGF22EXo4HtBJnlwdz6p5jJABRl_CqOyyCzCTBfXJghQthfEoTQB0NG7hwdCz4jkT-eTBRkzQ3Xw-6H-2XNVtFYVHsVbn20YKwBY247xuCt9VjZ-oM4044QPRnxgb_nNbde\")
Built in 1902 for James Benton Grant, the third governor of Colorado, Denver’s Grant Humphreys Mansion was sold to oil baron A.E. Humphreys 15 years later. The Colorado Historical Society now manages the property, using the front lawn and back patio (with pergola) for weddings. Photographers rave about this site because it’s located next to a park and features flower beds, birch trees, and rolling lawns. The lighting at sunset also helps create picture-perfect wedding memories.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Research & Learn
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jhTHupbN2aMxWloJmqAdfiOCZy5uVX99_Lsf6G0xkyaotHlTxaj_8lIr2BtJ4dRdAzV7Nb5W26pBUwVoAwe4X8yHw46qaBw18MTxDqlhNZrY31xTcglnJFc3__MA3ZPnv5eP--Td\")
Villa Parker bills itself as the place “Where the Tuscan Charm Meets the Rockies.” This wedding venue is just south of Denver and features a grand entrance and brilliant gardens. You’ll also get great pictures under the archways and courtyard with panoramic mountain views.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Villa Weddings
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Ck32MichoAh6rMaWaBraxzQLrzrQ6TbEPPcHTWacTmeaU9O_FeVzkgxmNog9SMGfs_GYu1W1QhaRjuRMEcMzVyQJ1E_Si5n--uW_3gREIwe-B9aWxnaVNGD8rjh0bWpcZafN0B-9\")
Wedding guests will go ape over ceremonies held at the Fort Worth Zoo in Texas. This is an unmatched spot for your special day, offering several backdrops. Put black bears and jaguars on the guest list at Texas Wild!, overlook a savanna and gaze at giraffes among the trees. Maybe you prefer the green surroundings of the Museum of Living Art gardens while surrounded (safely) by crocodiles, turtles, and exotic fish.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Fort Worth Zoo Is Seeing Pink!
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1uuVjKAIPRdZJiJD-ZL5jt_Fi7B4yertdiCAW5RBq0GUCVHZpmB51RRfgUJZpBQ7l0JPWmXk80YZPRrBfKBj-RCZH1LeM_tmG32iLmFQFN4wVDgKtpRLcxFC2jd1aEgq27ESLZi7\")
This art gallery and wedding venue in Fort Worth occupies a space that’s 110 years old. Enjoy two sculpture gardens and an outdoor patio. Cafe lights strung between the many tall trees create a just-right ambiance.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Elopements and Intimate Ceremonies
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/KE7jal_Av-rt0Rk7xpjvPRhHx-rZ8OOvW8ryyuR-zjO8ykj_7ox-Y0gPIE97INkL1T--9DdzsR1mn1xAvodyUGDnm1Ylt7FT1ikf3ePkfOWFFNLmUfwrSz7XBnAtSjOOE8363ILC\")
The Houstonian sits on 27 wood acres with several beautifully landscaped backdrops for couples to choose from. Pine and oak trees hold lush foliage and flora. Say “I do” under the twinkling lights wrapping a majestic live oak. Or spread out over the Event Lawn where, at certain times of the year, you’ll be treated to Houston’s show-stopping azaleas.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Celebrate Everything Azalea at the Houstonian Hotel Club & Spa
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wb0lP0KVi0BLhKR7m7ihFdi6kF_tCRbWviwFxKj-SusXGDjcYBVJ9wNz1UW-XPY5YKYqDd4OuRAJ9_ToxuJezTziiAvZUSL6eHQfLRoKWDwxkqUF0-KdaVKWPtpOWZU9YbsBkb3z\")
Looking for a rustic setting for your wedding? Moffitt Oaks in Houston may have what you want. Say your vows under an arbor next to a lake with a backdrop of mature trees, a green lawn, succulents, and flowers. Or choose a more rural look with a corral fence, an expansive lawn and an arbor dripping with plants and vines.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Outdoor Wedding Venues in Houston That Will Get the Party Started
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/DMVLSIcSIR1mv9n3S3FXPLwNj1E98YXIAQ2aZr3qhGpqEmgZ3wmQia-D1r8dCCBXSVfBn0qXPWYL_JsM1OruPFdoBstdJwFpyXtx3ntyXGB2wzb_ina7nqwWCcKxeNOc5M-PJoX3\")
Longview Mansion was Kansas City lumber baron R.A. Long’s country estate. Built in 1913, it was once known as the “World’s Most Beautiful Farm.” Restored to its original splendor two years ago, Longview Mansion boasts numerous perfectly manicured outdoor spaces for weddings. Cultivated gardens, wooded sites, a lake and sprawling fields create a picturesque backdrop for your ceremony.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Choosing a Wedding Venue
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/dbOUOFFxhAP7azFmhfPLTF4baH6fFkNZk77GgUPiSNdy3LOeZ6TKeRHgBs-QUycO3KuszszBq8__eowLmhOH6wOVKV3yNuoRcIETacjwlaP3lcg0GjPWJndzvQmGGSp0sD0HSTs_\")
An open-air chapel is a unique setting for a wedding, and you’ll find just that at The Pavilion Event Space in Kansas City. Surrounded by an expansive lawn, the chapel features trees, a garden, hardscaping, bridges and paths. State-of-the-art amphitheater surround sound and custom lighting make it an outdoor wedding to remember.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Moody + Romantic Wedding
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/BajKR6O6P6DZ_i53nieCYp3ewEHHMlCxWU7-9Z5wfSZXQUQ7JYnIYvvGJgZwDdIeAyyx5wzTEqlX3mbz2kmCBV5pTmZHxJHNZUep1btF7WsZlHRQXbOV-nTMptgvO8ghv6AuaPUo\")
This venue in Phoenix was never intended to be the popular wedding spot it’s become. The owner created the Hidden Gardens as a personal project but soon decided to share its distinctive style. Boojum Tree is a 5-acre forest of trees, fountains — even a waterfall! Couples can tie the knot on the Mexican Plaza, the Tropical Rainforest, or English Garden.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Photo Shoots
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eRX1mWH3SLt5LZQ9oIre0gFgdiBSLXCIjqvQZOA2vKalv_Ykd-ezbdP7aEwA5AO9TLC4SMLl3TDSZOgJ5ooNdkqMJavb6P2bd55rPpIzOZcBkHF8PRia6NuBPqyQFljSjWuTc57A\")
The Royal Palms Resort in Scottsdale, Ariz., initially operated as a couples retreat. These days, couples remain in the picture but the focus is on uniting them in marriage. Wedding sites include a stone-walled courtyard surrounded by palm trees, cacti and succulents, a lawn with mountain vistas, and the Camelback Vista with a garden and mountain views.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Weddings Outdoor Venues
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/BjARXUT0mY14S4At9hfub_7f5q5kMAoF5T-oArTWyvpXUhHThHHfJmZ3CvAIUaddfzzKB7tR6JZsvvsnczKAXoniz6j-s4Jgf5do4zQzEEzpzfscLNMEjSC3q-HI8nsJIL6846PF\")
The MIM in Phoenix calls itself “The World’s Only Global Musical Instrument Museum.” With more than 7,000 instruments from 200 countries, you’ll find items played by Johnny Cash, Elvis and Tito Puente. Wedding guests in the museum’s courtyard are treated to desert foliage, fountains, the Phoenix sculpture, and gorgeous desert sunsets.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Celebrating 10 Years of MIM
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/DYDaYhVX22_kUIQCBBDXERrIECNTLkBi1rtk6zog1tqnuX3C12uEpQR1ommQGfq6StFtMWDb4WrXtiRm-RCeDzKHoM7vRL3ha7EeyFTtZ5FzTewndgp1nxNKPOF2hCX_m-awos2A\")
The Meadows near Raleigh, sits on a heritage farm (owned and operated by members of the same family for more than 100 years). The rolling meadows and mature forests set the scene for couples who want nature to play a role in their ceremony. The Valley offers wide-open spaces, the Lawn gives a more intimate feel in a smaller space and the Meadows puts guests right in the middle of grassy fields.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Gone Camping: The Big Fake Wedding
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/pJ5JqHHKqq_J1jaGvywiYkFtUu90FxcDJD7Lsv-lMPNHETgLjeFES-ZRbU7uKhQYnyvezmZ4dt75pA9j0Sfje_7KjJmcnlZhLomXi7pqDVFSzwOtyH08CYK-VZ_889HxkOcn1mwC\")
This historic home in Raleigh, N.C., was built in 1876 by Agustus S. Merrimon, a chief justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court. For years in the 1900s, it was used as a college dormitory. Now, the Merrimon-Wynne House is one of the city’s premier wedding venues. Couples and their guests can experience the ceremony on The Lawn, under 100-year-old pecan trees, or in front of The Carriage House, with a sloping yard and a pergola.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: 8 Non-Diamond Engagement Rings That Still Have Plenty of Sparkle
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qb8ZweaDJfyas9hr49BvWob2Xi0vL90Y_Y8Ju6_dZ9urIbWc3gJkkGe1cDV_o9dwA2k9vr8rEudlpTLZa2bowfnzo6YCX8GR886vlMDb8Dno4NratVbhJTX4GDSI0tK_sOlaaS4D\")
This Minneapolis, Minn, mansion was built in 1892 for George Washington Van Dusen, a grain mogul. After years of commercial use, the historic property was set to be demolished, but an investor swooped in and restored it to its original splendor. Weddings at this castle-like estate are sure to impress. Ceremonies on the brick pavers in the courtyard are surrounded by gardens, trees, and flowering shrubs; an oasis in the city.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: 2020 Minnesota Bride Awards
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BnkZGa8UBKNRVnEjAZWNzSiAXCy67iwOlaP36ioOXpqNagiay6CQBceZpHsbqPW_tVUHCZI-ZUz0OlWrpVsOVYY8BjWKtMkt5nX4GGA4KGrWlv_lDLawc5QaDTiAOQ8lROtxi4D0\")
The Japanese Garden is part of Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minn. This 2-acre gem was built in 1972 on a swampy area behind the college. A professional garden architect from Tokyo helped design the space. Couples who wed at The Japanese Garden find a serene setting with shrubs sheared into specific shapes such as clouds or hills.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Japanese Garden Beckons in All Seasons
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/5dlEURh9YQNNhAcDuBwKZpaneWZM3Zpkt85_NaGa-uHle3PxqB6TOR2AQJdLB27fnsWt4T6y1YMG7fsPb4W3UwxFaSC_ShuLKUwfVYp3rUKuvb2esRxjVEFHsTgkchuglE30UntD\")
Brides and their Prince Charmings can say their vows like royalty at this venue in Minneapolis. Set in “Cindyrella’s Wedding Garden,” the backdrop for your special day features old country charm and unique landscaping. There’s a vineyard with Edelweiss and Swenson red grapevines, a 100-year-old willow tree, a flower garden, and a lake. Best of all, you arrive at the site in a white carriage.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Ceremony
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/s45RniOSidtwsB86RA6Pfp9V9_sdga0yhAPXaA__5JLOIntB8EA4jggEusid8N1_tNuos_sIxtpV10NIulvrok-ehv3das1pDTJPEC2FdUEor37YApRiylxy7hU3OG4KzSajGzuG\")
This historic property in Stillwater, Minn., has an unusual past. It was founded in 1858 as a poor farm, a place for the chronically indigent. The farm was discontinued 100 years later and eventually abandoned. Today, fully renovated, The Outing Lodge at Pine Point, serves as a pastoral setting for weddings. With 300 acres of wooded paths and rolling land amid hundreds of pines, the setting offers something for everyone.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Theme Rooms
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Oa27X_ZjdJIkjkFn6XPi61vba1UV9yUby4JvL3XlGv_ycsokD5V4gnyqkdlHbi8hvaPRPbDQwTgPt2UrQULEspL-pGg56P-63_9D5XF34qPIBOxm-U8J6g3sDNwfIsor42aiXnoM\")
The Mission Inn Resort & Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, a Central Florida town northwest of Orlando, is home to one of the earliest golf courses in the state. Built in 1917 to attract investors to the owner’s citrus business, the property declined during the Depression. Many years and renovations later, an inn was built based on Spanish Colonial architecture. Couples today can choose from three outdoor spaces; Legends Courtyard, Marina del Rey, and Plaza de la Fontana, all with spectacular landscaping and water views.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Goodness From the Garden
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/LYVqTIwhYTLSQ3BsV5-cP3ixIsM523w-FpE419HW8ZEt3osFk2vtavw-TK7-TRVXOrDQ_X1OTDKXpD0bIUTExeuFPafOaBWd_dwAzWLVzyaYgye184foXD7S3U3JbY1YCFN_XBeS\")
In 1895, Richmond, Va., businessman Lewis Ginter bought property that was once Powhatan Indian hunting grounds. He then built the Lakeside Wheel Club, a place for local bicyclists. After several expansions, the property morphed into the Botanical Garden. Couples choose from three wedding sites: The Rose Garden envelops guests in vivid roses and delicate scents; Flagler Garden features a secluded pagoda, surrounded by a circular screen of trees; and Grace Arents Garden offers a wide lawn, a paved path leading up to an arbor and plenty of bright flowers and plants.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Worms! How to Make a Wormery
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/XYkzGurq0lFuFJUy4Sl0SMpNeAG0w7HIADMouxDdEKmo81lx5YnU7tC5BfR0CeT-qRkaxShwKpaAzE-zo6jM6QshwdmLFblRqMW9o4NX1zLs6m7IFOvu2iMekr3iddgfqiZ6QlDf\")
Raise a glass to ceremonies at Virginia’s first urban cidery! Founded seven years ago in a historic building in Richmond, Blue Bee creates artisanal ciders from heirloom Virginia apples. This full-fledged cider production and tasting facility makes for a wedding backdrop like no other. The cidery offers French country style buildings and garden with vivid blooms and, of course, cider. Bottoms up!
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Persnickety Pawpaws
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/4m8SCIeJPbYjiMh7g7h3QYehAIqrZ48_4kzZxXYYOnKS2CDHMCRErIuQUvwDnIyfblEoVFCLLHwxyZBMUlix1OLsBN3zWTmSXRIveFLRy6M-KzcH5-hdyMjyTqrMGrwmJeb_rZRa\")
This ornate mansion on 100 acres of manicured lawns, flower gardens and trees started out in 1893 as the home of a wealthy lawyer and his wife. Having no children, the couple left the property to the people of Richmond, Va. Maymont is now a city park and museum and hosts many weddings each year. Impeccably landscaped spaces include the Italian Garden with hundreds of brilliant blooms, the Japanese Garden with a terraced waterfall, and The Robins Nature Center with fish, turtles, and river otters.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Teacher Appreciation
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/yOZ14a2mtfhjQC3xBxIx-mYBCCPVyh7tQL1hmu5Wq3D8x0UqzyOvCtRkBLprQSzaVNJA1SgOU61fF7AOFf7mJOlCRPXR4bf3_nhgxJidksdNlV3ZUSK3Qnz4xNxlIZO8RHwddQTk\")
The 1850 Settlement in San Antonio, Texas, offers a taste of the old Southwest. The property was homesteaded 170 years ago. Couples choosing this venue will find some of the original buildings still standing. Wedding guests will enjoy a spacious lawn, an outdoor firepit and enormous live oak trees, all set against the original homestead and The Settlement Stage Coach Station.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Rainy Day Wedding
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Qfyl2q_qxWVcZz7GggXH5thu7Ooqd0QPu5pZ70j7Pwi0iYv3fxTKKEc9Y86wY3jm4Wtzxp1J5aOrJSTw8KW1hIVCOTWzBIwFZ9h21hJaoJGcSXw8-FCdF31uOuX7izw0eKXELhYx\")
This 1894 home is modeled after the chateaus and castles in Belgium and France, as its original owner was Ambassador to Belgium in the early 1890s. The historic house in San Antonio, Texas, now functions as an inn and event venue. Couples who wed outdoors on the lawn have the arches of the mansion, well-kept shrubs, and plenty of mature trees as a backdrop.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Afternoon Tea Party
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I8kqEwrhb5qKz_f7KqAUvVbP_6tvJYlBrVm2FPzBJBQSOaEVsz8N1ZpK5brD-exS8-KROh8ysaH67OKLbPbb_y3dI87mx7ZGNwYfpmfyzV_lqE0ID8fEKV7OfNJ0J4KGgpm8_mrZ\")
Couples looking for European ambiance and charm in the Austin, Texas, area will find it at The Gardens of Cranesbury View. An Italian Sculptured Garden sits on 32 acres and features intricately designed hedges, rose bushes, and peaceful water features. An ornate gazebo with classic columns completes the picture-perfect look.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Useful Wedding Favors for Family and Friends
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/PpKdUUSxa60QPPQyS5V1Ovog-zlPnOrk_kEMu8hXONPLrAzYcQpkmWaI6xnl7cf8q5NNwbw_o4ApA1K28mGH8d0cmV4j95_FaudqaBIhu3TnvUPzMiSROmoReMmjDyibNMP_dy89\")
Imagine having peacocks on your guest list. That’s the reality for couples who hold their ceremonies at Hummingbird Gardens in Tampa. This family-owned business has been around since 2005, filling the grounds with well-known and exotic plants, trees, and flowers. Wedding guests will see the peacock and his family roaming the gardens, as well as horses and chickens.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Garden Nursery
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-A_HYDn5xQs1AdNEq-gRGttLB69laW1SrPU6_fB4CxTVEKoSVr_Exr_9qw23lYM1VdXPVgBlq_QCIvh2H6Q7wvdgL_BwY_2TSWLeYz3zVyV0gLYFe3Z-Xfmrc8wkqmZolYgM-E6p\")
Four acres of natural landscaping just seven minutes from the ocean make this the ultimate wedding venue for couples wanting greenery with a beach nearby. Country Villa in rural Virginia Beach, features white blooming bushes and trees behind a unique altar. You’ll also find a pavilion surrounded by mature pines, a spiral staircase attached to a vine-covered tree, and a bridge over a rock river surrounded by flowers.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Groom’s Room
\n\n\n\nDumbarton House
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/B0iZqhAo4heFaxBMnq3JrsVl5Unkha9ofQaTAFJFCz1xB2OIu2Ea8bqSBSHsBgujrZU2BZNg4F9R9xLBLsjqCQ8tpJ-UEHLr5xeuWrtJOQXQtZZQfb2IfpMQvcFmtOpLPBJDulkQ\")
Built in 1799, Dumbarton House offers a look at life in the earliest days of our nation’s capital city. The home is famous for being the place Dolley Madison first fled to when learning the British were coming during the War of 1812. These days, the museum is often used as a wedding venue. A courtyard paved with slate is among 1.2 acres of gardens and terraces, including an herb garden growing more than 40 varieties of plants.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Dolley Madison
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/LCuW0U-zFxwSXRg6Mcr6j2ks18A-jcJ09DRVRyOILUXdsjiJ_ETy36f_RkoAaypUHc-ewVa7lIa44KyxO1eMx2AJqMXjnRCCy3rfaTSrL708c3viMaQ2dbb6kArOxHH7mB07iDn2\")
This landmark hotel in Washington, D.C., has hosted presidents and world leaders since 1930 and is a member of Historic Hotels of America. In 1933, the Omni Shoreham Hotel put on the first inaugural ball for President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Thirty years later, The Beatles booked the entire seventh floor. Today, the property boasts three garden wedding venues complete with trimmed hedges, cherry trees, tulip beds, and a pavilion on a vast lawn, all surrounded by a colorful forest.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: 48 Hours In Washington, D.C.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/cvTy4qJc8PxFkGYiHsz1YDZ30x_hLm3T-A4g4TdCRWig7qXU-Uzsq962PzNShPILWqJSIXH0T2g6c_bljecCm4oVuzsc-Mmr_NRws3c2jqEWVdzerXzUbnJiXU6lLNQ6asPtCZk-\")
This private country estate in Jacksonville, Fla., was discovered by its owner five years ago as she was searching for a one-of-a-kind site for her own wedding. She took the rough space and put in the hard work to make it what it is today. The Keeler Property features Florida’s only covered bridge that’s open for both public and private events, a barn for rustic charm, all set on a lake and surrounded by trees.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: How Wedding Music Can Make — or Break — Your Reception
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_4a5ZFiUV_WNnWwMxp9loxH1HiWAbGaEihQbaX_3wjf7FCUZMr3vtEvNQ2crviM92DHQd2xKJBFqwtVwKJViXTZKbUmSS7MzFVgG99yp_4bNMMrdIZz0IsYLBhveIGGNJvb6FlWx\")
More than a million people visit the Chicago Botanic Garden each year, some of them brides and grooms. The Garden is a living plant museum and conservation center situated on nine islands in the Cook County Forest Preserves. Wedding parties can choose from many spaces, including a canopied terrace next to the water, an English walled garden, the Rose Terrace with its water features and roses, and the Buehler Enabling Garden, with hanging baskets and vertical flower beds.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Elements of Design
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/i-jivfckafGtfkXtvCPktuueF0ti5RSX51Wedya85cf2r6M9l7Csx17Pgwe84WHf8W6l6TlHaugCh8m64NW2t0ZI7aEFhjPnHhwFqQHNIPhPL9THfxQnyV9K0da7usp5KCMUZ100\")
In an epic example of reuse and recycling, South Coast Botanic Garden in the Greater Los Angeles area is one of the first botanical gardens to be created over a sanitary landfill. The garden is proof that land reclamation can help solve refuse disposal problems while creating a brilliant and beautiful space. Couples and their wedding guests enjoy 87 acres of rolling meadows, vivid flowers, a rustic amphitheater, a gazebo and a shaded koi pond patio, experiencing first hand this unique example of environmental improvement.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Banyan Grove
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/5Udrz2Y-lFktEL8QF2RNrnYyK6wxScUZYEbbFLcC3FQMDc9VRvCTmKLeG__BVxIyL_zSoE5QRaKO-mUfc0AuFhyz48ly3J8e6VwTnKBYJ-Lhb_0hTqJkbxfRtcoEPYOTTE9JWRJU\")
The vision of Lisa Brannon, an Ohio native and avid conservationist, sprang to life nine years ago near Dayton, Ohio. While creating a refuge for endangered species, including monarch butterflies, she also came up with a perfect outdoor wedding venue. The backdrop is a Tuscan-style pavilion surrounded by an expansive lawn, trees, stone paths, a pond, and vivid flowers everywhere. Cedar Springs Pavilion bills itself as the place where elegance meets nature.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Gardens
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/fYp_vMbfuGc5Aq-X97PGNf_ioh7jN6OhNvijpGBefDBrfaPLk_xdYpN754SahlA2MraVqr5wvQe3Yc-Del7YMk9q7hwtLYX9qVeAZYO5M0Frl4eX3fUHrpNqhrmfq5Enps7qYXwc\")
If you’re looking for a spectacular backdrop for your wedding, you can’t beat the Rocky Mountains. And if you’re looking for five-star luxury, The Little Nell has it. Located in Aspen, Colo., and named for an 1800s lady of the evening, it sits on land that’s been used as a summer hunting grounds for the Ute Indians, a place for miners to rest and a railroad depot. Today’s weddings at The Little Nell are nothing short of amazing, no manmade landscaping needed. Mother Nature already did that with jaw-dropping views of the mountains.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Wine Experiences at the Little Nell
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Y3rQ7_wiZcGTF53Ve6yMHPKq_4gBv7kKg3TAiUYy8rm_R2iS1ayG2Nigc-y1buCVmho7G9tWRd5OcSmUsqvfa1RfewV293d0lraWVuBgQnmwl_5t3jKPJJH2jOA8Ycfi9vdIcsDK\")
They really know how to throw a party here, as this 24,000-square-foot event center was designed specifically for weddings and banquets. Stonebrook Manor in Thornton, Colorado, features outdoor ceremonies in brightly colored gardens. The greenery is set among bubbling brooks and waterfalls with bridges, gazebos, arbors, and benches.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: 5 Ways to Make an Entrance at Your Wedding Reception
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/hVfO5sQf92bescAtovB8ULjaVCrw2YKUyBkkL0_c2m0ySyIgm_yrXagmVJe4cboUruIEVKEzQ7eYD9wUhTBa_dVBqQGR6IRTZw-ru_ckPghBK6s5z5ezgGMOCYUR_diVwmubMY2L\")
This living landscape is part of the University of Utah system and is a state arboretum in Salt Lake City. For 35 years Red Butte Garden has been connecting people to plants, with 100 acres of formal gardens, natural areas, waterfalls, and mountain views. Couples can say “I do” in the Rose House, the Rose Garden, or the Fragrance Garden where each spring, you’ll find a half million blooming bulbs.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Garden Misses You
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dU2QHjJ2wRPTq0-hiYNXEA01AC2cJZ7UoJJeGWbkmSHncmRkOPFsctackOXjDs5p6kvr33mqdtJ0-pWIDGLMJkLq8Vd1yw9nxmZrEBNOh3vxt_tYavVf7Sk3RmtwKeuzsswCJkJU\")
Experience the Wild West with your wedding guests at This Is the Place Heritage Park in Salt Lake City. Featuring 50 historic homes and structures, train rides, panning for gold and mining, the Park takes you back in time. Couples have ten wedding venues to pick from, including two outdoor pavilions. The third option, The Garden Place, is a rustic mountain lodge with French doors that open to a patio with a waterfall, a massive outdoor fireplace, and, of course, a majestic mountain view.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Pioneer Children’s Memorial
\n\n\n\nGetting married outdoors comes with the risk of a hiccup or two. You’ll have to worry about the weather and maybe a few uninvited mosquitoes. But the Wiki-award winning venues have you covered, literally. All have awnings or contingency plans for rain, and each has a bug zapper and plenty of bug spray on hand.
\n\n\n\nThe pros for choosing an outdoor wedding venue far outweigh the cons, especially when it comes to price. With the average couple spending more than $22,000 to get hitched, saving on flowers and other decor is a huge plus. Keep in mind, like real estate, the cost of any venue depends on location, location, location.
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\n","content":"\nLawnStarter has been called the Uber of lawn care, but is it legit? Short answer? Yes. Longer answer? You’ll find all you need to know in our LawnStarter review of its services, prices, customer reviews, and competitors.
\n\n\n\nInterestingly, LawnStarter’s co-founders don’t want to be likened to Uber, but that moniker has stuck in investment circles.
\n\n\n\n“So many people are trying to make an ‘Uber for X’. There’s only one Uber, and that’s Uber,” LawnStarter co-founder Ryan Farley says. “We’re not an on-demand, real-time company. It makes no sense for lawn care to be that way.”
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/zE1ChS6Og1vxg-VYYe-AZ1xQfxm_SCWMlJridVo3t3SbBRr0-DQ7fGQBOnXXrVIF_-fK13INDU1Eb7DBU4cipmMW9FYqoYrAVjzaIvLsQHn9amuSoHAirxtTuCR9DU0tjJH3713Fmn6txczEN89fuxBUW5_jJeGWs5QC8B8Ie5c362bNQFG9pjBEsnOlVg\")
Whether the company is Uber-like or not, it has become the largest, most popular way for homeowners to care for their lawn, and for good reason.
\n\n\n\nIn this Review:
\n\n\n\nWhy is Wikilawn reviewing LawnStarter? Wikilawn was created to compete with LawnStarter and similar sites, and our aim is to one day be better than all of them.
\n\n\n\nLawnStarter connects you with lawn care and other outdoor services pros in your area.
\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/2KG41896TuXxdLqF8YIT4jhawWKzzJNYCx2kqiPBDVpFnrTveSXyRTdPPIYcfUQ_ObuqYTDFB9orpDAe9SJQ3qXgvZYBnnnQZHMHPGjSW1-KIaQvbK7o5Isq1D7wSPADQBxddUStmD6kYKW4I0TsJHNU2Ws3QN5HhzXtqPh5nfUsk1a0OmI0yfxDChX8NA\")
How it works: You can get instant quotes for outdoor services by phone, the LawnStarter website, or by the startup’s app, which likely is how that whole “Uber of lawn care” comparison got started.
\n\n\n\nPayment is by credit card or debit card, and if your pro did a great job, you can even tip her or him via the app.
\n\n\n\nLawnStarter history: LawnStarter started in Austin, Texas, in 2013, as a lawn care service provider. The company has grown and now operates in nearly every major metro across the U.S. and can connect you with pros for all sorts of outdoor services.
\n\n\n\nThe Uber of lawn care is now the Uber of all outdoor services.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/f8VoxgybN4tQceQNQoMpGYckFpKkdxUWLtcfoSiYynu_uDWFceOjRfziA86avkp79KZdJflNCDueAyb2ZGBfbX2CjZ0WHfm2gdro3lL8BGxfgS7z5GRYNKPUkf-OD6sYgTTpuW4J1mwiEecbOyWrPciv1IFbvsEM5rNOnoojSHw5Fm2z_48Shewgf4spRg\")
LawnStarter uses local real estate records to calculate the size of your property and then generates a price quote. It often offers a $19 first-time mowing special for new customers. After that, mowing prices generally start at $29 per week. Price varies by the size of your yard.
\n\n\n\nA good range for an average, quarter-acre yard is $29 to $65. That includes edging and blowing grass clippings off patios and walkways. Generally, LawnStarter’s lawn care pros don’t bag clippings. They may if you request it, but expect to pay slightly more.
\n\n\n\nWorth Noting: If your grass is super long, say between 6 and 12 inches, LawnStarter tacks on an additional charge, which can be quite steep.
\n\n\n\nLawnStarter offers 20-plus outdoor services. It’s nearly impossible here to quote an average price for each service because the cost varies somewhat depending upon the size of your home or property, the type of work you need done, the region in which you live, and other factors.
\n\n\n\nHowever, you can get free quotes for any kind of work within seconds on the LawnStarter website or on the app.
\n\n\n\nJust want your lawn mowed and kept in tip-top shape? Maybe you’ll decide that LawnStarter, with all of its various services, is a non-starter for you. After all, can one site do everything well?
\n\n\n\nTry us at Wikilawn. You simply choose the lawn care service you want, put in your address, and we put your job out to bid to local yard care professionals.
\n\n\n\nThe price quotes you get back will depend on the size of your yard and other factors, but we cast a really wide net through sites like Lawn Love, HomeAdvisor, and Networx to ensure you get the best price possible.
\n\n\n\nSo how do you use LawnStarter?
\n\n\n\n![](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/F_Wb07EsZcD87OnSk4go6mMlAV12fhHbrTCo_7hZK9SvfA8oRYI7TWPnv-b22O4pCksryWYZsTMmevIOsekIvXhyk4TM-DuFe0W_GuD8U8_kguJP4_3OY2aEJACul-qQZQjK2sflSXUzmSevEjq3lDMBax2rZozFQEWtZU2AqHsXdzfkYj5kWxKIP7-gRA\")
Visit LawnStarter or log onto the mobile app. Enter your address, name, and phone number into the search bar, and click the “Request Quote” button.
\n\n\n\nNote: LawnStarter’s app offers a more stripped-down menu of services. If you want to book lawn care services, the app works great. If you want other outdoor services, the LawnStarter website is your better option.
\n\n\n\nChoose one or more services from the menu. For lawn care, choose your frequency (weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly).
Click “Get Free Quotes” (after you ensure your contact information is correct, of course).
\n\n\n\nWhat’s next?
\n\n\n\nFor lawn care services: LawnStarter will match you with a lawn care provider near you and your first service will be scheduled.
\n\n\n\nLawnStarter offers more services than competitors Lawn Love and GreenPal, but here’s a closer look at how LawnStarter, Lawn Love, GreenPal, and Wikilawn compare.
\n\n\n\n![](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ydc33opV1-rL95WHorZodYWXsTeFolKwfQalWcPCkWQx14IDTA0P1ssgldltjXteXKtu2rPtS4tPbsP7TpkkER-JXLek74kQv2Rkh5lOGW0ZeO6XOJ3it1i1XeNxlUK9x96rlQppEj5_DfrrZ5yhrU8-7xzoVvxHMuWr1TPc_ACDoJu8Y_TIDkywyy7Okg\")
| Metro areas covered | 120+ |
| Services offered | 20+ |
| Customer reviews (average as of the publishing date) | 4.8 out of 5 |
| How it works | A LawnStarter pro near you mows your lawn at the frequency (weekly, biweekly, monthly) you choose. |
| Ways to book service | Website, phone, or mobile app |
| Basic price | Depends on services requested and/or mowing frequency. By visiting the website, you may be offered your first mow for $19. |
| Year founded | 2013 |
| Based in | Austin, Texas |
| Better Business Bureau accredited? | No |
![](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/NdWBnc_CMKGsu53lEo6S3m8yjOmvI1qXfg1Gn9zQz-c12dlZ20o8SEhPgbhugL5XM8iLLNVTSXWtPRzmZMuSPdvIMGgEyYZNV7eabwPN0Q7RfY_hk3CVtXZpY8TES-Z7F8nmDFUDyK1EgrtxdG-auo9lhx9BF-wlJMtQ4E_qa8jsNiPn4AETl0PJHm1eAg\")
| Metro areas covered | 120+ |
| Services offered | 10+ |
| Customer reviews (average as of the publishing date) | 4.7 out of 5 stars |
| How it works | A Lawn Love pro near you mows your lawn at the frequency (weekly, biweekly, monthly) you choose. |
| Ways to book service | Website or phone |
| Basic price | Depends on services requested and/or mowing frequency. By visiting the website, you may be offered your first mow for $24. |
| Year founded | 2014 |
| Based in | San Diego |
| Better Business Bureau accredited? | Yes |
![](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/96aKsbY4azkOr7uppJEgLUvkVRI2hEJ-I8tb-X_d_Z8yqght8QC-DHOvipqesRRZXh6p4Tn1rHJ22MPjAUvSAe4nFw82tDfyONMhKrPzuCdn5CLPWP91VN58np0Y4jBaJJMyW9KIzNpZPkxeg8S_nnfS6tuRyo5v7iZ7YHQXZ8dTIh-Al5wMNog3govGew\")
| Metro areas covered | 100+ |
| Services offered | Lawn care, lawn maintenance, yard cleanups, snow removal |
| Customer reviews (average as of the publishing date) | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
| How it works | Your lawn mowing is put out for bid to lawn care pros near you |
| Ways to book service | Website, app or phone |
| Basic price | You’ll get multiple lawn mowing quotes from $25 to $45 |
| Year founded | 2012 |
| Based in | Nashville |
| Better Business Bureau accredited? | No |
![\"Wikilawn](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/rsz_171e64b7d-5080-473b-9793-87d2629a1cca_4_5005_c.jpg\")
| Metro areas covered | Available in most U.S. metro |
| Services offered | Lawn care, gardening, and landscaping |
| Customer reviews (average as of the publishing date) | No ratings available online |
| How it works | You’ll get a quote in minutes from up to 4 professionals who can tackle your lawn care or other outdoor job. |
| Ways to book service | Website |
| Basic price | Depends on services requested and the service providers’ quotes. |
| Year founded | 2013 |
| Based in | Dallas |
No product or service is perfect. Here are what LawnStarter excels and where it needs improvement.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nLawnStarter does get high marks from customers (as of this writing).
\n\n\n\nHere are a few of the customer reviews, both positive and negative:
\n\n\n\nWell Done and Thorough: “Good professional work on my large lawn (I am recovering from surgery and cannot push my own lawn machinery around for a number of weeks). Well done, thorough, completes the job. I feel I’ve contracted with a fine lawn service to fill in for me while I’m still unable to do it. … Much appreciated!” – Steve B.
\n\n\n\nSaved Me a Ton of Grief: “They have not failed to come out and do a good job for over 2 years. … (LawnStarter) has saved me a ton of grief for arranging services myself.” – Karl K.
\n\n\n\nFirst Time Wasn’t the Charm: “Our initial (LawnStarter) appointment was missed by the assigned person. After contacting the app, we were assigned a new company and are very happy with them. So far, any issues I have had have been promptly and without any hassle on my part.” – R. McCann
\n\n\n\nBroken Sprinkler Head: “I had my sprinkler head broken several times during my service. Both times I was given the option to have them replace the item or for me to be reimbursed. Both times I selected to have them replaced and both times was told they could not replace it, only offer me a small credit to replace the item.” – Justin
\n\n\n\nWe at Wikilawn make it easy to hire a lawn care pro to keep your grass green and healthy. It often will cost you less than LawnStarter and the other guys, too, because we cast the biggest net of lawn care pros.
\n\n\n\nSo before you go somewhere else, you’re already here.
\n\n\n\nLet Wikilawn find a lawn care pro near you to cut your grass and boost your home’s curb appeal.
\n\n\n\n![](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zYKvKOakIX9l8YnT-rPYa_hqJVssZWRFL9E45BMkrNsYuL8AYV5LgnRAEQYxv0fBZoAllKjSH5NkrS_mDVp5HmPmLfNfSv_Mrfez2OO2rEJlrw8CV05cL-gfLZPLsooafCqv9IBhmtq7DX1kfy7fS4WClSMjVbcgelnybnn1TpCWo5-STXbEo4ePqqP5Gw\")
But, circling back to the beginning of this review … Is the Uber of lawn care legit? We think so.
\n\n\n\nYou trust Uber to get you to the airport or to deliver dinner. Uber is ubiquitous. If you want a fancy app to book your lawn care service, sure, go with the so-called Uber of outdoor services – sorry, Mr. Farley.
\n\n\n\nOr you could just book your lawn care through Wikilawn. (Wink-wink, nudge-nudge.)
\n\n\n\n\n","title":"LawnStarter Review: Reviews, Services, Prices, and Alternatives","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7796143250688705,"src":"/static/c6947c73542ff36eebc59af310eca73e/bc41c/LawnStarter-Review-for-Wikilawn-646x363-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c6947c73542ff36eebc59af310eca73e/107df/LawnStarter-Review-for-Wikilawn-646x363-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/c6947c73542ff36eebc59af310eca73e/293e9/LawnStarter-Review-for-Wikilawn-646x363-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/c6947c73542ff36eebc59af310eca73e/bc41c/LawnStarter-Review-for-Wikilawn-646x363-1.jpg 646w","srcWebp":"/static/c6947c73542ff36eebc59af310eca73e/7328c/LawnStarter-Review-for-Wikilawn-646x363-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c6947c73542ff36eebc59af310eca73e/67b76/LawnStarter-Review-for-Wikilawn-646x363-1.webp 320w,\n/static/c6947c73542ff36eebc59af310eca73e/8df11/LawnStarter-Review-for-Wikilawn-646x363-1.webp 500w,\n/static/c6947c73542ff36eebc59af310eca73e/7328c/LawnStarter-Review-for-Wikilawn-646x363-1.webp 646w","sizes":"(max-width: 646px) 100vw, 646px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"LawnStarter Review: Reviews, Services, Prices, and Alternatives | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Does LawnStarter live up to its reputation as the “Uber of lawn care?” Our LawnStarter review looks at its services, prices, customer reviews, and more."}}},{"node":{"id":"56d927f0-5ba1-53a1-8ce5-798a8bdfd772","slug":"organic-lawn-fertilizer","path":"/blog/organic-lawn-fertilizer/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Taha Javed is a freelance writer and business student in Lahore, Pakistan. She loves swimming, reading, and playing with her dog.","name":"Taha Javed","id":"0531d17c-e9c8-5153-a6fb-6e2994f71716","path":"/author/taha-javed/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/877749883781783414fae4d0b98beb69?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"July 27th, 2023","excerpt":"Organic lawn fertilizers are a natural and sustainable way to nourish your lawn while causing the least environmental harm. These fertilizers give essential nutrients to the soil by utilizing organic materials and natural substances, fostering healthy development and sparkling green grass. What are Organic Fertilizers? Photo Credit: melGreenFR from Pixabay / Canva Pro / License […]
\n","content":"\nOrganic lawn fertilizers are a natural and sustainable way to nourish your lawn while causing the least environmental harm. These fertilizers give essential nutrients to the soil by utilizing organic materials and natural substances, fostering healthy development and sparkling green grass.
\n\n\n![\"compost](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/compost-and-soil.jpg\")
Photo Credit: melGreenFR from Pixabay / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nOrganic fertilizers are derived from natural sources and are minimally processed. They are often made up of plant material, animal byproducts, or mineral deposits. These materials decompose or compost, producing nutrient-rich substances that can be applied to lawns and gardens to offer necessary nourishment.
\n\n\n\nCompost, animal manure, bone meal, blood meal, fish emulsion, broken shell, and kelp meal are all examples of organic fertilizers. Because of their natural composition and slow-release nature, they provide a more balanced and environmentally conscientious approach to lawn care.
\n\n\n\nThere are a few essential things to consider while looking for organic fertilizers for your lawn, including:
\n\n\n\nConsidering these aspects, you can choose the best organic fertilizer for your lawn and create a healthy, vibrant, and environmentally friendly landscape. You can also get assistance from our guide on choosing lawn fertilizer to make the right choice for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nOrganic fertilizers and synthetic fertilizers both have pros and cons, but how do they stack up against each other? Take a look at our comparison.
\n\n\n\n| Pros of Organic Fertilizer | Pros of Synthetic Fertilizer |
| ✓ Slow-release for longer-lasting, more consistent results ✓ Improves soil composition and microbial health ✓ Don’t pollute the soil or local bodies of water ✓ Fewer health risks than synthetic chemicals | ✓ Immediate release for faster results and quick green-up ✓ Formulated with specific nutrient formulations to compensate for individual soil deficiencies ✓ More affordable than organic options |
| Cons of Organic Fertilizer | Cons of Synthetic Fertilizer |
| ✗ Takes longer to see results ✗ More expensive than synthetic fertilizers | ✗ More likely to cause fertilizer burn or lead to nutrient imbalances ✗ Can harm beneficial microorganisms in the soil ✗ Runoff contributes to water pollution ✗ Results don’t last as long, so more frequent applications are necessary ✗ More dangerous for pets and children who might accidentally consume harmful chemicals |
Organic fertilizers use natural processes to slowly release nutrients and promote soil health gradually. On the other hand, synthetic fertilizers are manufactured chemically, containing concentrated amounts of specific nutrients quickly released into your soil.
\n\n\n\nSynthetic fertilizers provide rapid nutrient availability to plants but can also lead to nutrient imbalances, leach into bodies of water, and cause soil degradation. These fertilizers have the potential to harm beneficial soil organisms and contribute to water pollution, whereas organic fertilizers improve the soil’s structure, moisture retention, and nutrient cycling.
\n\n\n\nOrganic fertilizers are comparatively more expensive than traditional chemical fertilizers and may take longer to give you results. But their long-term benefits and lower environmental impact make them an excellent choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
\n\n\n\n![\"compost](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/compost-soil-near-vegetation.jpg\")
Photo Credit: schulzie / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nOrganic lawn fertilizers provide multiple benefits, making them an appealing alternative for ecologically conscious lawn owners. Let’s examine the benefits of using organic fertilizers and why going natural is the best option.
\n\n\n\nOrganic lawn fertilizers have varying NPK ratios, representing the percentage of nitrogen (N; encourages leaf growth), phosphorus (P; stimulates root development), and potassium (K; fortifies plant cells and increases disease resistance) they contain. Here are some common NPK ratios you may encounter with organic fertilizers:
\n\n\n\nConsider your lawn’s nutrient requirements when selecting an organic fertilizer, and choose a product with a suitable NPK ratio.
\n\n\n\nJust remember that organic fertilizers have lower ratios than synthetic ones because they release nutrients slowly. Understanding the NPK ratio enables you to provide the proper nutrient balance, resulting in a lush and vibrant lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"cool-season](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/cool-season-and-warm-season-grass-map.jpg\")
Infographic by Juan Rodriguez
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to applying organic fertilizer, appropriate techniques and timing are essential. Fertilizers are best used in one to two applications for a healthy lawn, but timing differs for cool-season grass and warm-season grass.
\n\n\n\nLearn more about the timing of fertilization for different grass types with our ideal lawn fertilizer schedule.
\n\n\n\nCombine organic fertilizer application with proper lawn care procedures for the best results. Mow your lawn at the appropriate height regularly, water it properly, and deal with any weed or pest problems as soon as possible. Follow our detailed guide on when and how to fertilize your lawn to do it correctly.
\n\n\n\n![\"full](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/full-compost-bin.jpg\")
Photo Credit: piotr_malczyk / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nBefore diving into the best organic lawn care practices, let’s get familiar with organic lawn care. Organic lawn care refers to maintaining a healthy green lawn using natural and environmentally friendly methods. It involves avoiding chemicals, such as synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides, and instead focusing on organic alternatives.
\n\n\n\nPopular organic lawn care practices to use in tandem with organic lawn fertilizers include:
\n\n\n\nGrow the grasses that thrive in your locality without competition. For instance, cool-season grass is better for regions with cold winters and mild summers, while warm-season grass is better for regions with hot summers and mild winters.
\n\n\n\nFor an even lower maintenance and more eco-friendly lawn, ditch traditional turfgrasses altogether and plant native grasses from your region, such as switchgrass, blue grama, buffalograss, or bushy bluestem. Native grasses thrive with less irrigation, fertilizer, herbicide, and pesticide, which is better for your schedule, your wallet, and the environment.
\n\n\n\nEmbrace the power of composting by creating your own compost out of kitchen scraps or purchasing organic compost. Apply a light layer of compost to your lawn yearly to strengthen the soil, increase its ability to retain water, and enrich it with nutrients.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/17218096280_40c673bc1f_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Tony Webster / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nTo promote healthy root growth and shade out weeds, raise the height of your mower blades and cut the grass taller. Keep the grass trimmings on the lawn since they serve as an organic mulch and add nutrients to the grass. Taller grass needs less water, which is critical for water conservation.
\n\n\n\nTo promote healthy root development, water deeply but less frequently. This forces your grass’s roots to grow deep into the ground to reach the water, which makes your lawn more drought-tolerant. Drought-tolerant lawns use less water.
\n\n\n\nUse an Integrated Pest Management strategy, which emphasizes avoiding pest problems rather than eliminating them with harmful pesticides. To prevent lawn pests naturally, keep your lawn free of dead leaves, excessive thatch, and other organic matter. It’s also a good idea to attract predatory insects, birds, and other natural predators which feed on those pests.
\n\n\n\nFocus on maintaining a weed-free lawn by regularly watering and mowing at the correct height. Reduce the need for chemical herbicides by pulling weeds by hand or making your own eco-friendly homemade weed killer.
\n\n\n\nOrganic lawn fertilizers may have an upfront price greater than synthetic fertilizers. However, when the long-term benefits of healthy soil, lower environmental impact, and healthier grass growth are considered, investing in organic lawn care can result in cost savings over time.
\n\n\n\nYes, organic lawn fertilizer is suitable for all varieties of grass. Organic fertilizers are available to suit the unique nutrient requirements of both cool-season and warm-season grasses. Simply choose the proper organic fertilizer formulation for your grass type and apply it in the prescribed amounts.
\n\n\n\nYou can make your own natural lawn fertilizer from regular household items and natural ingredients. Kitchen waste, grass clippings, and mulched leaves can all be composted to create nutrient-rich fertilizer for your lawn. You may also produce compost tea by steeping compost in water and use it as a liquid fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nMost homeowners these days are environmental enthusiasts–it’s necessary in a world of climate change and spiking pollution. More and more people want to eliminate chemical-based products like synthetic fertilizers from their lawn care regimen to support their local ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nOrganic fertilizers are an important part of any eco-friendly lawn care routine. If you’re one of these newfound eco-warrior lawn enthusiasts, learning everything you can about organic lawn fertilizer is a good first step.
\n\n\n\nIf you find it challenging to schedule fertilizer applications properly or need clarification about picking the right organic fertilizer for your lawn, don’t worry. You can always turn lawn fertilization over to the pros. Find a local lawn care pro who specializes in “green” lawn care on WikiLawn today.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Elena Photo / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"A Guide to Organic Lawn Fertilizer","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/517b9011da36a0613d7bcdb931647b65/1789c/compost-with-pitchfork-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/517b9011da36a0613d7bcdb931647b65/107df/compost-with-pitchfork-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/517b9011da36a0613d7bcdb931647b65/293e9/compost-with-pitchfork-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/517b9011da36a0613d7bcdb931647b65/f2cbb/compost-with-pitchfork-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/517b9011da36a0613d7bcdb931647b65/1789c/compost-with-pitchfork-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/517b9011da36a0613d7bcdb931647b65/c26c2/compost-with-pitchfork-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/517b9011da36a0613d7bcdb931647b65/1dd6e/compost-with-pitchfork-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/517b9011da36a0613d7bcdb931647b65/67b76/compost-with-pitchfork-1.webp 320w,\n/static/517b9011da36a0613d7bcdb931647b65/8df11/compost-with-pitchfork-1.webp 500w,\n/static/517b9011da36a0613d7bcdb931647b65/98a65/compost-with-pitchfork-1.webp 800w,\n/static/517b9011da36a0613d7bcdb931647b65/1dd6e/compost-with-pitchfork-1.webp 960w,\n/static/517b9011da36a0613d7bcdb931647b65/3cc96/compost-with-pitchfork-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"A Guide to Organic Lawn Fertilizer | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"In this guide, you can explore the benefits of organic lawn fertilizer, how to choose the right one, and tips for achieving a lush, chemical-free lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"c3d2d0ef-0b52-5679-8531-cdce38189828","slug":"the-8-major-metro-areas-that-are-most-fired-up-about-burning-coal-to-keep-warm","path":"/blog/the-8-major-metro-areas-that-are-most-fired-up-about-burning-coal-to-keep-warm/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"May 13th, 2019","excerpt":"John Egan On chilly days, most Americans heat their homes by turning up the thermostat for a furnace powered by natural gas or electricity. Even today, though, some folks fire up coal-burning stoves to supply warmth. Among the country’s 50 biggest metro areas, nowhere is dependent on coal or coke (a coal byproduct) for heating […]
\n","content":"\nJohn Egan
\n\n\n\nOn chilly days, most Americans heat their homes by turning up the thermostat for a furnace powered by natural gas or electricity. Even today, though, some folks fire up coal-burning stoves to supply warmth.
\n\n\n\nAmong the country’s 50 biggest metro areas, nowhere is dependent on coal or coke (a coal byproduct) for heating fuel more than Pittsburgh, PA.
\n\n\n\nA WikiLawn review of U.S. Census Bureau data shows 173 of every 100,000 occupied housing units in the Pittsburgh area rely on coal or coke for heating fuel. By comparison, 108 of every 100,000 occupied households across the country depend on coal or coke to generate heat.
\n\n\n\nLike Pittsburgh, six of the seven other metro areas on our list are in the Northeast, where coal historically has been more popular as a heating source than in other parts of the country.
\n\n\n\nCertainly, the total number of occupied U.S. households where you’d find a coal-burning stove is tiny — just one-tenth of 1 percent, or a little over 128,500 households. Of those households, an estimated 1,939 are in the Pittsburgh metro area, according to our analysis of data from the Census Bureau’s 2013-2017 American Community Survey. The annual survey takes the pulse of America in terms of demographic and housing characteristics.
\n\n\n\nAnyone who lives in or grew up in Pennsylvania undoubtedly knows why coal remains a source of heat for more than 1,900 households in the Pittsburgh area.
\n\n\n\nIn 2017, Pennsylvania ranked third among the country’s top coal-producing states, behind Wyoming and West Virginia, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). That year, Pennsylvania mined 49.1 tons of coal, or 6 percent of the country’s total coal output.
\n\n\n\nOver the years, coal production in the U.S. has fallen off as utility companies have switched to natural gas, a cheaper source of energy, or to wind and solar power, which, unlike coal, are renewable sources of energy. Nationwide coal production slipped nearly 3 percent in 2018 from the previous year, according to EIA.
\n\n\n\nThe Keystone Stone, particularly the Pittsburgh area, enjoys a centuries-old relationship with coal. Mining of bituminous (or “soft”) coal in Pennsylvania dates back to the late 1700s. In Pennsylvania, bituminous coal first was mined in Mount Washington — aka “Coal Hill” — just across the Monongahela River from Pittsburgh, according to the state Department of Environmental Protection.
\n\n\n\nOver the years, industrial plants around the state, including steel factories in the Pittsburgh area, have consumed much of the coal mined in Pennsylvania.
\n\n\n\nBeginning with Pittsburgh, here’s our list of the 8 Major Metro Areas That Are Most Fired Up About Coal-Burning Stoves. (Or, put another way, the 8 Major Metro Areas Where Frosty the Snowman Should Be Afraid of Losing His Two Eyes Made Out of Coal.)
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/pittsburgh-skyline-for-coal-article.jpg\")
Number of occupied housing units: 1,118,610
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units using coal or coke for heating fuel: 1,939
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units per 100,000 using coal or coke for heating fuel: 173
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i0.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/hartford-ct-skyline.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1\")
Number of occupied housing units: 512,877
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units using coal or coke for heating fuel: 629
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units per 100,000 using coal or coke for heating fuel: 123
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i0.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/philly-skyline-for-coal-article.jpg?fit=1024%2C672&ssl=1\")
Number of occupied housing units: 2,469,188
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units using coal or coke for heating fuel: 2,637
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units per 100,000 using coal or coke for heating fuel: 107
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/cleveland-oh-skyline.jpg\")
Number of occupied housing units: 959,615
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units using coal or coke for heating fuel: 1,013
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units per 100,000 using coal or coke for heating fuel: 106
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/providence-ri-skyline-for-coal-article.jpg\")
Number of occupied housing units: 700,220
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units using coal or coke for heating fuel: 582
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units per 100,000 using coal or coke for heating fuel: 83
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/boston-ma-skyline-for-coal-article.jpg\")
Number of occupied housing units: 1,930,177
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units using coal or coke for heating fuel: 1,204
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units per 100,000 using coal or coke for heating fuel: 62
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i2.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/nyc-skyline-for-coal-article.jpg?fit=1024%2C576&ssl=1\")
Number of occupied housing units: 7,916,318
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units using coal or coke for heating fuel: 4,450
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units per 100,000 using coal or coke for heating fuel: 56
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i1.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Buffalo-NY-skyline-for-coal-article.jpg?fit=1024%2C736&ssl=1\")
Number of occupied housing units: 525,820
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units using coal or coke for heating fuel: 284
\n\n\n\nNumber of occupied housing units per 100,000 using coal or coke for heating fuel: 54
\n\n\n\nAuthor Bio: John Egan is a freelance writer who covers everything from personal finance to lawn care. His masterful work has been featured in The Huffington Post, Forbes, and The Guardian.
\n","title":"The 8 Major Metro Areas That Are Most Fired Up About Burning Coal to Keep Warm","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/337ada0c401dc867613108b62c123fed/1789c/burning-coals.jpg","srcSet":"/static/337ada0c401dc867613108b62c123fed/107df/burning-coals.jpg 320w,\n/static/337ada0c401dc867613108b62c123fed/293e9/burning-coals.jpg 500w,\n/static/337ada0c401dc867613108b62c123fed/f2cbb/burning-coals.jpg 800w,\n/static/337ada0c401dc867613108b62c123fed/1789c/burning-coals.jpg 960w,\n/static/337ada0c401dc867613108b62c123fed/a2a79/burning-coals.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/337ada0c401dc867613108b62c123fed/1dd6e/burning-coals.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/337ada0c401dc867613108b62c123fed/67b76/burning-coals.webp 320w,\n/static/337ada0c401dc867613108b62c123fed/8df11/burning-coals.webp 500w,\n/static/337ada0c401dc867613108b62c123fed/98a65/burning-coals.webp 800w,\n/static/337ada0c401dc867613108b62c123fed/1dd6e/burning-coals.webp 960w,\n/static/337ada0c401dc867613108b62c123fed/7aa54/burning-coals.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The 8 Major Metro Areas That Are Most Fired Up About Burning Coal to Keep Warm | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"fdce3bbd-95d6-5a64-b3f5-8251b5297d04","slug":"how-to-get-rid-of-armyworms","path":"/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-armyworms/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Brenda Stuart is a radio journalist and content manager whose goal is to have the greenest lawn and prettiest garden on the block.","name":"Brenda Stuart","id":"fcad9a7b-532b-583f-832f-0cffbbcfa0a3","path":"/author/brendastuartryangmail-com/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/5e5ae7b8ac8b21db046b4f507fbec2aa?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"August 16th, 2022","excerpt":"Armyworms can turn your lawn into their own private mess hall in no time. They travel in platoons like soldiers and can devour a golf course, playing field, or your yard in just two or three days. We will show you how to get rid of armyworms before they destroy your lawn. In this article, […]
\n","content":"\nArmyworms can turn your lawn into their own private mess hall in no time. They travel in platoons like soldiers and can devour a golf course, playing field, or your yard in just two or three days. We will show you how to get rid of armyworms before they destroy your lawn.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll explore:
\n\n\n\nIt’s not the adult armyworms you need to worry about, but the infantry. Yes, the worm in its infant or larva stage devours grass and leaves to grow to adulthood. You can win the battle against this army if you know how to identify the youngest members.
\n\n\n\n![\"Armyworm](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_1young_-_fall_armyworm_in_oats002.jpg\")
The larvae range from dark green and brown to black. They’re only about an inch and a half long, so it might be tough to see the white, orange, and dark brown stripes along the caterpillar’s sides. However, its red or yellowish-capped head is a dead giveaway.
\n\n\n\n![\"Armyworm](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_fall_armyworm_moth_14862753532.jpg\")
Although the armyworm caterpillar is the grass-eating culprit, it’s the adult moths who lay the eggs – thousands of them at a time. Get rid of moths, and you get rid of the armyworms.
\n\n\n\nYou can identify armyworm moths by their inch-and-a-half wingspans. Their underwings are white, and their upper wings are light tan to brown with white specks.
\n\n\n\nMoths are attracted to lights and will lay their white, round eggs on the underside of leaves, grass blades, and structures near turf.
\n\n\n\nThe good news is armyworms cannot tolerate temperatures below 50 degrees. The bad news? Many species will fly to Florida or South Texas for the winter. There are several ways to get rid of armyworms without using chemicals.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to running over the caterpillars, the shorter turf leaves survivors to die from exposure to the sun. Even if you plan to use insecticides, a shorter lawn will enable the chemicals to penetrate the soil.
\n\n\n\nBirds, ants, spiders, flies, ground beetles, and other beneficial insects feed on armyworms. Don’t be so quick to shoo away the wasps. Their next meal could save your lawn.
\n\n\n\nThese microscopic organisms feed on armyworm larvae, grubs, and hundreds of other garden pests. Nematodes won’t harm you, your plants, or the pollinators your plants depend on. Make sure you read the package directions and buy a species that targets armyworms.
\n\n\n\nAloe and marigolds produce a scent that armyworms find unappealing. Farmers will often plant tick clover or desmodium in their corn fields to keep the armyworms away.
\n\n\n\nA light spray of neem oil on your plants and lawn will kill the armyworm caterpillars within three days. This biological solution is perfectly safe for wasps, flies, and other armyworm predators.
\n\n\n\nBacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a naturally occurring soil bacterium that’s toxic to armyworm larvae. Bt occurs naturally in soil, so it has no adverse effects on the environment. You can buy Bt in dust form, pellets, or sprays and apply it to your lawn.
\n\n\n\nIf the armyworm population in your yard is out of control, you may have no choice but to resort to an insecticide. Ortho and Spectracide offer several insect-killing lawn products that you can apply directly to your grass.
\n\n\n\nBefore buying an insecticide, make sure it contains one of these ingredients to get rid of armyworms:
\n\n\n\nThis highly toxic chemical will kill armyworms, but it’s also toxic to people, pets, bees, and fish. Be careful that you don’t use so much that it runs off into nearby waterways.
\n\n\n\nThis pyrethroid comes in granular form. It kills armyworms and other grass-munching bugs by disrupting the nervous system. It won’t kill earthworms or birds, but it is toxic to fish and bees.
\n\n\n\nAnother man-made insecticide, permethrin comes in granular and spray forms. Use with extreme caution as permethrin is also poisonous to people.
\n\n\n\nThis soil bacteria controls a wide variety of lawn pests and usually works within two days. The chemicals break down quickly in the soil and don’t contaminate groundwater. Most products containing spinosad are approved for organic agriculture.
\n\n\n\nSince armyworm caterpillars are most active at night, it’s best to treat your lawn at sundown. Use a heavier dose if the grass is thick or the armyworm population is extremely high.
\n\n\n\nBefore applying an insecticide, water the area well. The moisture will bring the armyworm larvae to the surface.
\n\n\n\nThe fall armyworm is one of the worst backyard pests in the U.S., destroying lawns and gardens faster than any other insect or lawn disease. You can reduce your risk of an armyworm invasion with a few preventative measures.
\n\n\n\nRemove the weeds, especially the broadleaf weeds like common chickweed and dandelions, where armyworm moths often lay their eggs.
\n\n\n\nThe debris and grass clippings that build up between your grass and the soil are another great host where the adult armyworm moths can lay eggs. Dethatch your lawn every spring, so the armyworms have no place to hide.
\n\n\n\nArmyworms look for hot, dry places to lay eggs and feed. Give your lawn at least an inch of water a week to make your yard less inviting.
\n\n\n\nDon’t wait for an infestation. Apply a preventive pesticide containing either methoxyfenozide, diflubenzuron, or chlorantraniliprole at the end of the spring and again in the fall. Follow all package instructions and use a slow-release insecticide that will last through the summer.
\n\n\n\nBunch grasses like ryegrass, St. Augustine, Bermudagrass, and fescue take the biggest hit from armyworms. Grasses with rhizome and stolon growth like Bermudagrass typically recover better.
\n\n\n\nYou’re better off planting Zoysiagrass. For some reason, armyworms don’t like the taste of the fine blades. The larva also tend to shy away from grass mixes, so next time you’re overseeding, add a different variety of seed to your lawn.
\n\n\n\nIdentifying the armyworm enemy is crucial. To determine a count of the armyworms in your yard, begin with a soap flush. Use 2 tablespoons of liquid dish soap mixed with 1 gallon of water. Pour the mixture over a small area. Armyworm larvae and other insects will come to the surface.
\n\n\n\nIf you find only a handful, you can hand-pick them off your plants and drop them into another bucket of soapy water. Entomologists recommend a more extensive treatment when there are more than three caterpillars per square foot.
\n\n\n\nNo. Armyworms will not bite or sting. They are not poisonous if consumed and do not transmit diseases. They are harmful to plants and cause major economic concerns for farmers.
\n\n\n\nA lawn with an armyworm infestation will give off a frosted appearance or resemble drought stress at first. The tips of the grass blades where the armyworms are feeding will appear translucent. You will also notice a number of birds visiting to feast on the pests.
\n\n\n\nYes, the adult moths will look for plants with larger leaves to host their eggs. The armyworm larvae prefer:
\n\n\n\nSometimes, they’ll attack a bentgrass lawn, too. Of these grass types, Bermudagrass has the best chance of recovering since it spreads by fast-growing rhizomes and stolons.
\n\n\n\nNo. Although armyworms prefer warm, dry weather, you’ll find them in every U.S. state except Alaska.
Feel like you’re fighting a losing battle against armyworms and other lawn-destroying insects? We can help you find a lawn care professional near you to take care of all your lawn pest problems and give you tips to prevent future infestations.
\n\n\n\nMain photo credit: USGS Bee | Flickr
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